Violent online groups extort minors to produce child sexual abuse material

Violent online groups use threats, blackmail, and manipulation to control the victims into recording or live-streaming self-harm, sexually explicit acts, and/or suicide.

The groups target minors between the ages of 8 and 17 years old , especially LGBTQ+ youth, racial minorities, and those who struggle with a variety of mental health issues.

The FBI urges the public to exercise caution when posting or direct messaging personal photos, videos, and identifying information on social media.

Malicious actors can easily manipulate hacked social media accounts.

Secure social media and other online accounts using complex passwords and multi-factor authentication.

Research the privacy, data sharing, and data retention policies of social media platforms, apps , and websites before uploading and sharing images, videos, or other personal content.