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Cases involving violent extremists targeting kids online rose 300% in San Antonio in 2 years, FBI says
By Courtney Friedman, Luis Cienfuegos at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 9, 2026
· 3 min read
A federal court case involving a San Antonio teen has exposed a growing and dangerous problem in South Texas and around the nation. Cases involving violent extremists targeting kids online have increased 300% in the San Antonio area in just the last two years, according to the FBI. Predators are ...
Key takeaway Cases involving violent extremists targeting kids online have increased 300% in the San Antonio area in just the last two years, according to the FBI.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
The alarming rise in cases of violent extremists targeting kids online in San Antonio has significant implications for local families and the community. With a 300% increase in just two years, it's clear that parents and guardians must be vigilant in monitoring their children's online activities. The FBI's warning that these predators are using social and gaming apps to form relationships with kids and coerce them into violent acts is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in the digital world. As the FBI works to dismantle these online networks, local parents can take proactive steps to protect their children, such as delaying open internet access and using monitoring software. The fact that the FBI is investigating over 500 subjects tied to violent online networks in the San Antonio area alone underscores the need for a collective effort to address this growing problem and ensure the safety of local children.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 9, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 3 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A federal court case involving a San Antonio teen has exposed a growing and dangerous problem in South Texas and around the nation. Cases involving violent extremists targeting kids online have increased 300% in the San Antonio area in just the last two years, according to the FBI. Predators are ...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 9, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Courtney Friedman, Luis Cienfuegos at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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