Norwegian authorities warn of extreme online sect targeting children

Norway’s justice minister and children’s ombudsman have raised the alarm over a brutal online sect phenomenon coercing children into severe criminal acts, including self-harm, animal torture, and violence, Dagbladet reports.

The sect, known as “764” and part of a broader network called “The Community” (The Com), pressures vulnerable minors into extreme actions as “slaves” to a “master,” with acts often livestreamed in chat groups. Norwegian police are investigating four cases linked to the phenomenon, which has seen a sharp rise in reported incidents.

Call for stronger protections
Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen and Children’s Ombud Mina Gerhardsen met Monday to discuss countermeasures, emphasizing the need for parental awareness, prevention, and holding tech companies accountable.

“It is horrifying that networks exist with the primary goal of harming children,” Gerhardsen told Dagbladet. “Parents must know what to look for and how to prevent their children from falling into these traps.”

Aas-Hansen stressed the importance of international police cooperation, noting that perpetrators, victims, and platforms often span multiple countries. “In these cases, the offender could be in Australia, the victim in Norway, and the platform based in a third country,” she said.

Tech companies urged to act
Both officials agreed that technology firms must take greater responsibility, including enforcing age restrictions, verifying users, and regulating content. Gerhardsen criticized companies for waiting on legislation rather than proactively protecting children.

“They should lean in and take responsibility now—not wait for laws,” she said, adding that children should not have access to encrypted apps.

Aas-Hansen announced a May meeting with Nordic counterparts and tech firms in Stockholm to address EU-wide regulations, including the Digital Services Act (DSA).

Psychological manipulation tactics
The sect employs psychological coercion, exploiting shame and fear to control victims. Aas-Hansen cited a case where a girl in Romerike was ordered to kill a family member.

“This is cynical and manipulative. It affects vulnerable children but also those from stable homes. We must protect all children,” she said.

Gerhardsen advised parents to reassure children that they can seek help without judgment, undermining the sect’s power over victims.