A disturbing network of neo-Nazi sextortionists is reportedly targeting children, including a 9-year-old, with threats to disseminate explicit photos and videos throughout the United States.
The FBI is currently investigating hundreds of cases involving this group, known as “764.” This cult-like organization has ties to neo-Nazism and Satanism, preying on victims they contact via gaming chat rooms, social media, and phone applications.
The 764 network is described as the largest of its kind, with around 250 active cases spread across multiple FBI field offices.
The FBI stated, “These networks use threats and manipulation to coerce victims into producing and sharing self-harm, animal cruelty, sexually explicit content, or even suicide.” Members of the group often threaten to circulate the abusive material among themselves and publicly to exert control over their victims.
Some of the warning signs that parents should look out for might just seem like normal teenage behavior, while others are much more alarming:
- Children expressing thoughts of self-harm or suicidal inclinations
- A noticeable withdrawal from friends and family
- Changes in eating, sleeping, and dressing habits
- Pets mysteriously harmed or dying
- Instances of children self-harming or marking their skin
- Writing that appears to be in blood or resembles blood
The 764 organization is an offshoot of an older, larger group connected to neo-Nazism and Satanism. Its founder, Bradley Cadenhead, was just 15 when he established the group in 2020, naming it after a part of his zip code.
The FBI has characterized these individuals as “nihilistic violent extremists aiming to destabilize civilized society,” although their actual beliefs seem to vary widely. The agency pointed out that some members may engage in criminal acts for reasons ranging from sexual gratification to a desire for social status, rather than for ideologically motivated intents.
The overarching threat to children has prompted intensified efforts from law enforcement, according to Rebecca Weiner, vice-chair of NYPD Intelligence and Anti-Terrorism. She noted that the number of cases is likely to rise as arrests occur and computers and phones are seized, providing more insight into these predatory behaviors.
In one notable case last year, a 17-year-old girl from Vernon, Connecticut, was arrested for allegedly making fake bomb threats to schools and places of worship. During the investigation, authorities found a photo taken by her that showed a naked Barbie doll with “764” written on its face.
Recently, two suspected members of this network, Prasan Nepa Leonidas Varagiannis and another individual, were charged with targeting a 13-year-old online and threatening to produce explicit videos that included self-harm symbols.
