FBI details how online extremists recruit children through video games
Agents say the group, known as Nihilistic Violent Extremists, targets youth aged 11 to 18 on gaming platforms, with the Kansas City field office reporting a recent increase in activity.
By Samir Patterson ·
Federal agents have identified a growing network of online predators who recruit children through popular video games and social media platforms. The FBI calls these actors Nihilistic Violent Extremists, or NVEs. According to special agents, the group is motivated by a desire to destroy societal values and create chaos.
Kash Patel, the FBI Director, stated that the United States is currently investigating 1,700 domestic terrorism cases. He noted that a large portion of these investigations involve NVEs. These groups are defined by violent acts driven by a deep hatred of society.
The threat was first documented in 2021. Known groups associated with this trend include the 764 Network and a group calling itself No Lives Matter. The FBI classifies NVEs as a rising threat to domestic security.
Amy Ramsey, a supervisory special agent with the FBI in Kansas City, said the organization has seen a rise in NVE activity in the region. She confirmed that agents are seeing this type of extremism on both sides of the state line. Ramsey declined to share specific case details but emphasized that the threat is local.
The predators specifically target children between the ages of 11 and 18. Ramsey explained that victims are often vulnerable youth who may lack strong family or social support. These children typically spend a large amount of time in online communications. While both boys and girls are targeted, agents said the group predominantly targets females.
Ramsey described the recruitment process as starting with benign interactions. Predators build rapport and friendship with the child. Once trust is established, they move the victim to encrypted platforms where tracking is difficult. She stated that this process takes the concept of sexual extortion and makes it more violent.
The violence often begins with what agents call blood signs. This includes victims writing names in blood on walls or notebooks, or committing acts of violence against siblings or pets. Ramsey said the behavior escalates quickly. She stated that the end goal is for the victim to commit suicide or an act of mass violence, rather than for the predator to gain sexual gratification or money.
The FBI is currently investigating the May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego. Two teens opened fire on the mosque, killing three people while livestreaming the attack. The attackers then took their own lives. The FBI said the gunmen were radicalized online and motivated by nihilistic violent extremism.
Agents advise parents to monitor their children's online activity. Ramsey urged families to look at the content on devices and limit communication with strangers. She said parents should maintain open and calm communication about online dangers to create a safe environment for children.
If parents suspect NVE activity, Ramsey said they should remain calm and not shame the child. She advised preserving all evidence, including messages and content, and ceasing communication with the predator. Families can report suspected activity to the FBI at FBI.gov, by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI, or by contacting their local police department. Ramsey said that reporting even uncertain activity helps because predators often victimize multiple children.
Samantha Hausker, Director of Education at the Boys and Girls Club, said the organization is teaching children to be responsible digital citizens. She said the group brings awareness to cyberbullying and helps kids recognize red flags online. Hausker noted that online threats can start with a single comment or interaction.
