TRENTON, NJ – The FBI has issued a public warning regarding violent online groups that have been coercing minors into self-harm and producing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) as of Thursday.
These groups insidiously target minor victims on accessible messaging platforms, extorting them into recording or live-streaming acts of self-harm, sexually explicit actions, and, in some instances, suicide.
The malicious cohorts utilize threats, blackmail, and psychological manipulation to control victims, compelling them to record or live-stream harmful and explicit acts. The produced footage is then disseminated among group members, further exploiting and controlling the minor victims.
The FBI is rigorously working to identify and dismantle these harmful online entities, ensuring the safety of minors navigating online spaces. Parents and guardians are asked to maintain open lines of communication with their children regarding their online interactions and to report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.
The bureau seeks cooperation and assistance from the public in tracking down these perpetrators and bringing them to justice. If anyone has information or has encountered such groups, they are asked to contact their local FBI office or report it to the Cyber Tip Line.