Law enforcement is warning about a new online threat preying on teenagers in Georgia.

The FBI says they are seeing more online activity from the violent extremist group “764.”

According to investigators, the criminal organization targets young victims on the internet, often getting them to create gory or sexual content that is then used against them for extortion.

The FBI is investigating 450 suspects nationwide tied to the 764 network. Atlanta police said they have five active cases.

Recent Atlanta cases

One recent case involved a man arrested in northwest Atlanta after officials found a dog beheaded on the front porch of a home along Illinois Avenue. Graffiti with 764 markings covered the walls inside.

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Police said beheaded animals were also recently left at Atlanta’s Anderson Park.

Officials on Thursday said bomb threats at Atlanta schools and businesses have also been linked to the 764 online network.

How the network operates

Officials said suspects — often men in their early 20s — prey on young girls through social media platforms like Discord and Telegram. The suspects groom their victims, get them to send nude or illicit pictures, then blackmail them, forcing them to harm themselves or animals or pay up.

The FBI has received more than 50 credible tips across Georgia since 2023.

“We urge everyone, especially parents, to be extra vigilant when posting personal photos, videos or direct messaging online,” said Brian Ozden, assistant special agent in charge for Atlanta’s FBI field office.

Warning signs for parents

Police believe these cases are being underreported and are urging parents to look for signs from their children. Warning signs include whether a child has a new friend online, has suddenly changed their appearance or how they interact with pets.


“Tell someone that loves you, tell someone that you love, and law enforcement’s going to make sure they get the help that they need, and we’re going to make sure those that have victimized them are going to be held responsible,” said Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum.

Atlanta police are working with the FBI to track down and stop the network.

“This is a perfect example of the local-federal partnership that is at play every day keeping this region and our nation safe,” Schierbaum said.