FBI Boston reports disturbing online threats to kids on the rise

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Information and Analysis Center (MIAC), in coordination with the Boston Division of the FBI alerting parents to an increased activity of violent online networks that are actively targeting minors and vulnerable individuals across the country and around the world.

These networks operate on widely used platforms like social media, gaming apps, and messaging services, accorindg to a press release from Maine Department of Safety spokesperson Shannon Moss.

They seek to exploit victims, many between the ages of 9 and 17, through manipulation, threats, and extortion, coercing them into acts of self-harm, animal cruelty, or worse. These disturbing images or videos are then used to further control, shame, or re-victimize individuals.

Key Warning Signs May Include:

• Sudden withdrawal, changes in mood or behavior

• Secrecy or fear surrounding online activity

• Unexplained gifts or digital currency

• Physical signs of self-harm or emotional distress

• Incidents like swatting or suspicious harm to pets

What You Can Do:

• Monitor online activity and talk with children about online safety

• Be cautious when posting images or personal information

• Watch for warning signs of grooming or online manipulation

• Report concerning behavior immediately

Report incidents to:

• https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cybertipline.org%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cshannon.moss%40maine.gov%7Cf51eaf02f8e7479455e808dda4531645%7C413fa8ab207d4b629bcdea1a8f2f864e%7C0%7C0%7C638847398953374143%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=KoQMxqmDXRLUvzbOOsY1IK%2BZSJVZ0Xc3Wgo5w88NJgc%3D&reserved=0

• Or call 1-800-CALL-FBI or 1-800-THE-LOST

More resources for protecting children online: https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Ftakeitdown.ncmec.org%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cshannon.moss%40maine.gov%7Cf51eaf02f8e7479455e808dda4531645%7C413fa8ab207d4b629bcdea1a8f2f864e%7C0%7C0%7C638847398953388754%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=0py9%2BetXRn3GDQhZQ804mC8MeJjJvtYG%2Bjc8cb02pvA%3D&reserved=0

More info from FBI at

https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250306