FBI Director: Nihilistic Extremists Target Teens in Online Games
Federal agents say 1,700 domestic terrorism investigations are linked to online predators who coerce youth into violence and self-harm.
By Ahmed Peterson ·
The FBI is currently investigating 1,700 cases of domestic terrorism, with a large portion driven by a specific online threat known as Nihilistic Violent Extremism, or NVE. FBI Director Kash Patel stated that these actors are motivated by a deep hatred of society and a desire to sow chaos. The agency describes NVE as a rising domestic terrorism threat that has been documented since 2021. Known groups associated with this movement include the 764 Network and a faction called No Lives Matter.
The threat operates primarily through popular online games, social media, and peer-to-peer messaging platforms. Agents report that these predators target children between the ages of 11 and 18. While they recruit both boys and girls, supervisory Special Agent Amy Ramsey of the FBI in Kansas City noted that female victims are targeted predominantly. These young people often lack strong family or social support structures and spend extensive time in online communications.
The recruitment process begins with building rapport and friendship on benign platforms. Once trust is established, the predators move the victims to encrypted platforms where tracking becomes difficult. Ramsey explained that NVE differs from traditional online predators because it ramps up sexual extortion into more violent acts. The end goal is not sexual gratification or financial gain, but rather to force the victim to commit suicide or act as a mass shooter.
Violence often starts with what Ramsey calls blood signs. These include writing names in blood on notebooks or walls, or displaying aggression toward siblings or pets. The FBI is currently investigating the May 18 shooting at the Islamic Center of San Diego for its connection to NVE. Two teenagers opened fire during a livestream, killing three people before taking their own lives. Agents determined the gunmen were radicalized online and motivated by NVE ideology.
Ramsey stated that the Kansas City field office has observed a rise in NVE activity on both sides of the state line. She declined to discuss specific case details but emphasized that the threat is closer to home than many parents realize. The predators are often global, operating from inside and outside the United States using any available digital interface.
Federal agents identify education as the primary form of deterrence. Parents are advised to know the specific apps and games their children use and to monitor online activity rather than simply restricting devices and forgetting about them. Ramsey urged parents to limit communication with strangers, especially for younger children, and to maintain open, calm communication about online dangers to create a safe environment for disclosure.
If parents suspect NVE activity, they should remain calm and avoid shaming the child. Ramsey instructed families to immediately preserve all evidence, including messages and content, and cease all communication with the suspected predator. Suspected activity can be reported to the FBI via the tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, the website FBI.gov, or by contacting local police. Agents encourage reporting even if the situation is unclear, as the evidence can assist nationwide investigations.
Samantha Hausker, Director of Education at the Boys and Girls Club, said the organization teaches children to be responsible digital citizens. The program focuses on cyberbullying and recognizing red flags in online interactions. Hausker noted that online dangers can begin with a single comment or minor interaction, making awareness a critical tool for young users.
