FBI Richmond warns parents about gore groups coercing children to commit violent acts

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- FBI Richmond is warning parents about gore groups, a violent network that is targeting children and manipulating them into recording themselves committing violent acts.

On Monday, April 14, FBI Richmond provided information about gore groups such as 764, which is one of many violent online networks targeting children across the United States.

According to FBI Richmond, children victimized in these groups are coerced into making sexually explicit content, as well as sharing recordings of themselves engaging in violent acts, such as harming animals, committing murder or self-harming.

FBI Richmond said many 764 members involved in the illegal activity are minors.

The agency said it is leveraging its Counterterrorism, Crimes Against Children and Behavioral Analysis experts to counter what they say is a growing threat to children.

In Virginia, FBI Richmond's Joint Terrorism and Child Exploitation Task Forces are engaging with law enforcement partners, as well as collaborating and sharing information with school districts, Child Protective Services and parents.

Anyone with information relating to gore groups or suspect a victimization can contact the FBI at 1-800-2255-324 or on the agency's website.