In recent years a disturbing trend has emerged in the online world—violent and exploitative networks targeting vulnerable youth. In today’s world of technology, children are more connected than ever before. With access to social media platforms, online games, and messaging apps, the internet offers countless opportunities for education and entertainment. However, these same platforms have also opened the door for exploitation and manipulation-particularly through elusive online communities known as COM Networks and others such as the notorious 764 Network. These networks should be and are becoming increasingly concerning for parents, educators, and cybersecurity professionals alike.
What are COM Networks?
“COM Networks” is a broad term used to describe loosely organized communication-based groups. They often operate on encrypted messaging apps, hidden forums, and lesser-known social platforms. The term “COM” typically refers to “community”. These networks are often built around shared interests or ideologies. While COM Networks can be centered around hobbies, some have darker, insidious purposes, becoming breeding grounds for harmful behaviors, thriving on anonymity, and exploiting social media platforms.
The 764 Network: A Growing, Dangerous Threat to Children Online
The 764 Network emerged from various dark web and fringe online communities. This network, previously known as CVLT, was founded in 2021 by Bradley “Felix” Cadenhead, a teenager from Stephenville, Texas. It is named after the ZIP code of its founder’s hometown and operates under the broader umbrella of “The COM”, a collection of violent online communities. Members of 764 use platforms such as Discord, Telegram, and Roblox to recruit and manipulate minors using threats and blackmail, particularly those aged 9 to 17, into engaging in harmful behaviors. https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250306
Victims are often coerced into producing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), performing acts of self-harm, or even live-streaming their suicides. The content generated by these victims is circulated within the network. This serves as both a form of control and a very disturbing form of currency. Members of 764 are encouraged to “earn” status by creating and sharing this increasingly extreme content, sometimes referred to as “Lorebooks”, which combines violent imagery with personal abuse. Wikipedia
The Real-World Impact
The consequences of exposure to the 764 Network are devastating. The FBI has issued a PSA warning of a sharp increase in 764 activities. This announcement details how this network exploits minors. It also emphasizes the importance of vigilance and awareness. It urges parents and guardians to monitor their children’s online activities and to be aware of warning signs such as sudden behavioral changes, unexplained injuries, or the presence of new online “friends”.
The 764 Network is not an isolated case. It is part of a larger ecosystem of online predators operating under the guise of anonymity and digital freedom. They continue to employ tactics of “swatting” (sending armed police to a victim’s location) and as mentioned above, “doxxing” to intimidate and control their targets. Reuters In some cases, legal action has been taken against adults affiliated with these networks; however, the decentralized and anonymous nature of COM Networks makes prosecution difficult.
What Can You Do?
1. Education and Awareness:
Parents and guardians must educate themselves.
- Monitoring and Parental Controls: Use tools to monitor activity and filter content to prevent your children from encountering and falling victim to dangerous networks.
- Report to Law Enforcement: Report suspicious activity to local authorities or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) if you suspect your child is being targeted. Working with Law Enforcement can help dismantle harmful groups.
- Recognize Warning Signs: Be alert to changes in behavior, appearance, or social interactions that may indicate distress.
2. Open communication about online safety is crucial.
Teach and instill the following in your children:
- Never share personal information: This includes your full name, address, phone number, or school details.
- Be wary of online strangers: Do not trust or share personal information with people you do not know in real life.
- Be cautious about online friendships: Online, friendships can be different from real-life friendships, and it is important to be cautious about who you add as friends to your social media accounts.
- Reporting and Enforcement: Encourage your children to report suspicious behavior to you immediately.
For more information and resources, visit the FBI’s Public Service Announcement: https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250306
Conclusion
The 764 Network represents a grave threat to the safety and well-being of children online. The rise of COM networks and groups such as the 764 Network reveals a dark undercurrent in today’s digital landscape. By staying informed and vigilant, we can help protect vulnerable individuals from falling prey to these malicious actors. Collaboration between parents, educators, and Law Enforcement is crucial in combating this growing danger.
Tags: 764, 764 Network, Cyber Threat, kids online
