A Warning; the following information is disturbing
RCMP are warning parents after receiving a tip about a child being targeted by a network of violent, online groups which deliberately target vulnerable children, and platforms that attract young people in Canada, and beyond.
No known cases have occurred in this province to-date.
The groups are known by a variety of names, including 764, 676, CVLT, Court, and Harm Nation.
Those names are continually evolving, and are linked to ideologically motivated violent extremism say police.
The perpetrators target children between the ages of 8 and 17, in particular 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, racial minorities, and those with mental challenges.
The perpetrators manipulate young people to record, or live-stream acts of self harm, sexual acts, animal cruelty and other acts of violence. Victims are often asked to carve numbers, or names of groups into their skin to “brand” themselves.
Perpetrators then create extreme fear to blackmail young people into sharing increasingly violent acts, with the goal of having the child stream their own suicide online.
#RCMPNL issues warning of violent online network targeting minors – https://t.co/UqfhkKvDFO pic.twitter.com/pAlUvLChLO
— RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador (@RCMPNL) July 19, 2024
RCMP Warn:
Adults should pay close attention to children’s participation on all online platforms including social media, chat rooms and gaming platforms such as Snapchat, Roblox, Discord, Minecraft Twitch, Telegram, Steam, etc. Many of these applications are used to communicate and livestream and can be leveraged to remain undetected by adults and avoid law enforcement intervention. Ensure location and microphone are turned off on any platforms used by children.
Adults are urged to watch for signs that their children may have been targeted:
They are more quiet than usual, excessively moody or withdrawn.
They have a new online “friend” or network they seem infatuated with and/or scared of.
They spend more time on the internet, unsupervised or alone in their room, and ask for more money for online use.
They go through an increased number of bandages, or show evidence of cuts, stab wounds and other self harm.
They cover their skin in unusual ways.
They show an affinity to particular messaging online including conspiracy theories, anti-government rhetoric and propaganda.
Family pets suddenly seem fearful of your child or are harmed in suspicious ways.
Anonymous gifts arrive at your home for your child.
Online “strangers” purchase in-game or in-app features or subscriptions for your child.
Their school grades drop significantly.
If you have concerns and you believe your child is victim of one of those violent groups, contact your local police, If your child is immediate danger, call 911.
