FBI: Extremist Networks Targeting Kids in Online Games

The Federal Bureau of Investigation says a network of online extremists is actively recruiting children between the ages of 11 and 18 through popular video games and social media platforms. Agents describe the threat as a form of domestic terrorism driven by a desire to cause chaos and destruction in American society.

FBI Director Kash Patel stated that the agency currently has 1,700 domestic terrorism investigations open in the United States. He noted that a large portion of these cases involve nihilistic violent extremism, or NVE. The FBI first documented NVE groups in 2021. Known collectives include the 764 Network and the group known as No Lives Matter.

The threat has manifested in lethal violence. On May 18, two teenagers opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego, killing three people. The pair livestreamed the attack before taking their own lives. The FBI determined that the gunmen were radicalized online and motivated by nihilistic violent extremism.

Amy Ramsey, a supervisory special agent with the FBI in Kansas City, reported a recent increase in NVE activity in the region. She said agents are seeing this behavior on both sides of the state line. Ramsey explained that the predators target vulnerable youth who may lack strong family support. She noted that while both boys and girls are targeted, victims are predominantly female. The process begins with building rapport in benign online spaces before moving victims to encrypted platforms that are difficult to track.

Ramsey distinguished NVE from traditional online predators by noting that the end goal is not sexual gratification or money. Instead, the aim is for the victim to commit suicide or an act of mass violence. She described early warning signs as blood signs, which include writing names in blood on walls or notebooks, or showing violence toward siblings or pets.

Officials say education is the primary method of deterrence. Samantha Hausker, Director of Education at the Boys and Girls Club, said her organization teaches children to be responsible digital citizens. She emphasized teaching kids how to recognize red flags in online interactions. Ramsey advised parents to monitor the specific apps and games their children use. She urged families to maintain open, calm communication about online dangers and to avoid becoming complacent about device usage.

If parents suspect NVE activity, Ramsey said they should remain calm and avoid shaming the child. She instructed parents to immediately preserve all evidence, including messages and content, and to cease all communication with the predator. Suspected activity can be reported to the FBI at FBI.gov, by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, or by contacting local police. Ramsey said parents should report any activity, even if they are unsure, because the evidence can aid nationwide investigations.