Blairstown police warn parents about emerging online extremist group targeting children

BLAIRSTOWN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — Blairstown police are warning parents about a dangerous online movement targeting children and teens following reports of possible incidents in Warren County.

Authorities said the group, known as “764,” has emerged in recent years as a form of online exploitation involving extremist ideology and harmful manipulation of vulnerable youth.

“Most parents are familiar with online risks like sextortion, bullying, and predatory behavior. Over the past two years, a new and far more dangerous movement has emerged,” police said in a public advisory. “It is tied to online extremist ideology, sadistic manipulation, and severe harm directed at vulnerable children.”

Police said the group differs from typical online scams or sextortion schemes because it is not financially motivated but instead driven by harm and control.

“764 represents one of the most extreme forms of online exploitation seen to date,” the advisory states. “Unlike financially motivated sextortion groups, these individuals are driven by cruelty, violence, and ideological extremism.”

Authorities said the group is classified as an ideologically motivated violent extremist organization and operates across online platforms, often targeting youth between the ages of 9 and 17.

Police said individuals associated with the movement may attempt to manipulate victims through coercion and intimidation, particularly those already struggling with mental health challenges such as depression, isolation or low self-esteem.

“What makes 764 especially dangerous, their use of sextortion,” the advisory states. “764 is not a typical sextortion network. It is a violent, extremist, youth-driven movement with a single ideology: harm for the sake of harm.”

Officials said the group’s tactics can include pressuring victims into harmful acts and encouraging risky or dangerous behavior, often through online communication channels.

Police are urging parents to monitor their children’s online activity, maintain open communication and be aware of warning signs of distress or unusual behavior.

Authorities also encouraged residents to report suspicious online activity to local law enforcement.