FBI Launches Major Investigation into Online Group Targeting Kids
The FBI has started investigations across all field offices into the dangerous 764 online group. This major operation targets predators who go after children through social media and gaming platforms….
WASHINGTON – MARCH 09: The seal of the F.B.I. hangs in the Flag Room at the bureau’s headquaters March 9, 2007 in Washington, DC. F.B.I. Director Robert Mueller was responding to a report by the Justice Department inspector general that concluded the FBI had committed 22 violations in its collection of information through the use of national security letters. The letters, which the audit numbered at 47,000 in 2005, allow the agency to collect information like telephone, banking and e-mail records without a judicially approved subpoena. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
The FBI has started investigations across all field offices into the dangerous 764 online group. This major operation targets predators who go after children through social media and gaming platforms. Bradley Cadenhead, the group's founder, is currently serving an 80-year prison after pleading guilty to several child pornography-related charges.
"One of the most disturbing things we're seeing," said FBI Assistant Director David Scott to ABC News.
The FBI arrested two main suspects: Leonidas Varagiannis - who went by "War" online - and Prasan Nepal. Both are charged with running a worldwide network that targets children.
"These criminals methodically target the most vulnerable members of society, our children and other at-risk individuals - by connecting with them online and then manipulating or coercing them into producing and sharing extreme gore content, child sexual abuse material, or engaging in acts of animal cruelty, self-harm, or violence," the FBI Miami Division told CBS12 News.
Given that its size matches domestic terrorism cases, the FBI's Counterterrorism Division is heading many investigations. The predators target kids between 9 and 17 years old, with possible victims numbering in the thousands worldwide.
These criminals force young victims to create disturbing content, including self-harm and animal abuse. They then use this material to blackmail victims or share it within their group.
In their online attacks, multiple members gang up on single targets. In 2024 a Kentucky teen connected to 764 made bomb threats against Palm Beach law enforcement.
Every FBI office is now working on active cases. In Spring 2025, officials warned about growing threats from 764 and similar groups.
The FBI asks parents to watch their children's online activities and look for warning signs - particularly sudden changes in behavior or signs of self-harm.
