RNC warning residents about violent online group ‘764’ targeting youth
The RNC is warning the public after a child was extorted online by a violent group known as “764”. Police say the incident led to a “swatting” call to 911 where a fake report of an emergency downtown was reported. NTV’s Ben Cleary reports.
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) is investigating reports of a violent online group exploiting youth in the St. John’s area.
The group “764”, which is classified as a terrorist entity, uses social media and gaming platforms like Roblox and Minecraft, to coerce and exploit young people into committing acts of self-harm with each interaction escalating the danger to both the youth and those in their inner circle. Acts could include sharing intimate images, threats, harming animals, and other forms of serious violence.
The RNC is making parents, guardians and caregivers aware of warning signs that could signal that a young person is being targeted. They include:
- New online “friends” or networks that they seem infatuated with and/or scared of.
- Receiving anonymous gifts, items delivered to your home, currency, gaming currency, or other virtual items.
- An interest in gore, disasters, self-harm, suicide, or true crime content.
- Writing in blood or what appears to be blood.
- Spending more time on the internet, unsupervised, or alone in their room.
- Spending more money online or asking for money more often.
To report suspicious online activity please contact your nearest police detachment. If immediate assistance is required, call 911.
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