The FBI’s Columbia field office is warning South Carolina parents about a significant increase in investigations involving violent online networks and nihilistic violent extremist groups targeting children and teens.
From 2025 to 2026, the FBI’s South Carolina field office recorded a 380% increase in cases involving these networks. Investigators say perpetrators use chat rooms, gaming platforms and other online communication tools to establish relationships with young victims and influence them to participate in violent or dangerous acts.
In the past year, every South Carolina investigation involving a violent online network included minor victims. In 75% of those cases, investigators identified the perpetrators as minors as well.
Victims may be pressured to record violent acts, including self-harm, animal cruelty or violence against others. Those recordings can then be used to extort victims and force them to commit additional acts.
The FBI says warning signs may include changes in behavior, appearance, eating or sleeping habits; unexplained injuries; animal cruelty; harm to younger siblings; discussions about death; or reports that personal information has been posted online. Unexpected calls or texts from unknown numbers about a child may also be a warning sign.
The FBI encourages parents to maintain active, supervised involvement in their children’s online activities, including knowing which apps, games and platforms they use and who they communicate with.
Parents who believe their child may be involved with one of these networks are encouraged to contact the FBI or local law enforcement for assistance.
Sign up for our Sunday Spectator. Delivered to your inbox every Sunday, with all the news from the week.
