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Inside the violent online network coercing children to self-harm

Published July 26, 2026 at 9:02 PM UTC

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Australian authorities have uncovered a disturbing online network that systematically targets children, forcing them to self-harm and livestream the acts. The group, operating across encrypted messaging apps and social media, uses threats, blackmail, and manipulation to coerce victims as young as 12. Investigators say the network recruits through gaming platforms and anonymous forums, then escalates demands for increasingly harmful behavior. So far, at least 50 children in Australia have been identified as victims, but officials believe the actual number is much higher. Police have made several arrests and are working with international agencies to dismantle the network. The case has sparked urgent calls for stronger online safety laws and better platform accountability. For families, the news underscores the need for open conversations about digital risks and earlier intervention signs. The government is considering mandatory age verification and real-time monitoring of encrypted content, though such measures raise privacy debates.