CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The FBI is asking parents to be on alert for a targeting kids and teens.

Agents say sextortion is now taking on a new form, with predators convincing victims to physically harm themselves. .

FBI agents say this is one of the worst —and fastest-growing — trends they’ve seen: online predators convincing victims to hurt themselves and in some extreme cases, to take their own lives.

"So we see more sadistic groups operating online, and they're looking to target vulnerable children," James C. Barnacle Jr., ’s Special Agent in Charge.

Predators are combing the internet, looking for victims in a new, horrific bullying scheme with devastating consequences.

"They'll build up rapport with the victim so the victim thinks they're a friend, and quickly that turns into trying to e

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