Woodlands-area parents face a growing threat from online predators targeting children through gaming and social media platforms, the FBI's Houston Field Office warned Friday, Sept. 25.

The office has seen a 600% increase in complaints about online predators, Special Agent in Charge Jason Hudson told KHOU. Hudson did not specify the time period for the increase. Victims have been as young as 8 years old, though predators primarily target females ages 10 to 17, he said. The FBI Houston field office covers the greater Houston area, including Montgomery County and The Woodlands.

"The absolute worst thing that parents can do is assume this is not happening here in Houston because it absolutely is happening here," Hudson said.

How grooming works

The networks use platforms popular with kids to identify vulnerable targets, build trust and then escalate. Grooming often leads to children sharing sexually explicit photos or videos, according to the FBI. Predators then use that material as leverage.

The exploitation goes beyond sexual motives, Hudson said. The FBI has investigated cases in which predators coerced children into self-harm.

In some instances, victims took their own lives, Hudson said.

Much of the threat traces to a violent online network known as "764," which the FBI identified as a primary concern in a March 2025 public service announcement. The network operates on Telegram, Discord, Roblox, Instagram, TikTok, Fortnite, Minecraft and other platforms, according to OSV News. Canada designated 764 a terrorist group in December 2025.

The FBI was investigating more than 450 people tied to these networks as of Sept. 13, according to NBC Palm Springs.

Warning signs for parents

The FBI's public service announcement lists several red flags:

  • Sudden behavior changes, including becoming withdrawn, moody or irritable
  • Changes in appearance, eating or sleeping habits
  • A new online "friend" the child seems infatuated with or afraid of
  • Receiving anonymous gifts, including gaming currency
  • Unexplained marks such as cuts, scratches, burns or bruises
  • Wearing long sleeves or pants in hot weather
  • Family pets being harmed or dying under suspicious circumstances

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received more than 50,000 reports of financially motivated sextortion in 2025, averaging 137 per day. That was up from more than 36,000 in 2024, according to NCMEC data. NCMEC warns that victims should never pay predators or send additional content.

How to report

Parents who suspect a child is being targeted should save all evidence, including usernames, email addresses, platform names and any images or messages. Reports can be filed through:

  • FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center: ic3.gov
  • FBI tip line: 1-800-225-5324
  • NCMEC CyberTipline: cybertipline.org or 1-800-THE-LOST
  • DHS Know2Protect Tipline: 1-833-591-KNOW (5669)
  • Emergencies: 911

If you are having suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.