Executive Summary
- The FBI has officially labeled the global “764” online network a “new form of modern-day terrorism” for targeting children.
- Federal investigations into the network have increased from 250 to over 350 in the last six months, with victims confirmed in North Carolina.
- The network coerces minors into self-harm and creating abusive content, with one case allegedly linked to the suicide of a 13-year-old boy.
- A North Carolina man has been charged in connection with a similar global child exploitation enterprise and has pleaded not guilty.
RALEIGH, N.C. – The Federal Bureau of Investigation has designated a global online network known as “764” as a “new form of modern-day terrorism,” citing its practice of targeting and coercing children into acts of violence and sexual exploitation. The agency confirmed that the number of federal investigations linked to the network has surged to over 350 nationwide, with victims identified in North Carolina.
According to the FBI, predators within these networks befriend minors and other vulnerable individuals online, manipulating them into escalating patterns of violent behavior. This coercion can include forcing victims to create child sexual abuse material, harm family pets, engage in self-harm with sharp objects, or attempt suicide, with some incidents being live-streamed.
The devastating impact of the network was highlighted by Leslie and Colby Taylor, whose 13-year-old son, Jay, died by suicide. Authorities allege a member of the 764 network pushed him to take his own life. “They took advantage of Jay’s loneliness and his kindness, and then they completely preyed on his insecurities,” said Leslie Taylor. The family is now advocating for greater accountability from lawmakers and online platforms to implement stronger protections for teens.
The growth of this threat is reflected in federal data. In the past six months, the number of FBI investigations has increased from 250 to over 350. Concurrently, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reports it is on track to receive nearly 2,000 reports of abuse this year tied to 764 and similar online groups.
In a related case in May, Prasan Nepal of High Point, North Carolina, was arrested and charged with operating a global child exploitation enterprise. He has pleaded not guilty, and his case is proceeding through the judicial system. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.