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

Agents say sextortion is now taking on a new form, with predators convincing victims to physically harm themselves. One of the ring leaders was arrested in North Carolina earlier this year .

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., FBI Charlotte ’s Special Agent in Charge.

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

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