FBI Dallas Field Office warns of '7 6 4' violent online networks targeting minors

Robbie Manson, assistant special agent in charge at the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Dallas Field Office, warned that violent online networks often called "7 6 4" are coercing and manipulating minors and other at-risk people into harming themselves, animals and other minors.

"They seek to coerce and manipulate minor victims into harming themselves, animals, and other minors," Manson said, adding that such networks may "even encourage victims to attempt suicide." He said members are sometimes motivated by "nihilistic violent extremism" or a desire to "sow chaos and bring about the destruction of society."

Manson told listeners the networks operate across the United States and worldwide on social media, gaming apps and other online platforms and frequently have unfettered Internet access. He described a pattern in which members build trust with victims, then coerce them into sharing personal information and explicit images or videos that are used for blackmail to force further, escalating abuse.

The FBI is "investigating more than 450 subjects who are tied to 7 6 4 and other violent online networks," Manson said. He said the Dallas Field Office is responding locally by applying its experience in crimes against children and investigations into ideologically motivated crimes.

Manson urged the public to report information or suspected victims: call 1-800-CALL-FBI, submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov, or contact local police. He added that anyone in immediate danger should call 911.

The statement did not propose new local policy or announce prosecutions; it was presented as an informational and public-safety appeal by the FBI Dallas Field Office.