The tragic killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has once again brought attention to a disturbing trend: the role of social media and online platforms in radicalizing young adults and inspiring violent acts. Utah Governor Spencer Cox revealed that the suspected killer, Tyler Robinson, shared messages in a Discord group chat joking about the murder. While Discord stated there is no evidence Robinson publicly planned or promoted violence on the platform and has since removed his account, this case highlights a larger concern about the dangers lurking in the digital world.
Young adults and teenagers frequently navigate multiple online platforms to find communities that reflect their interests and values. Unfortunately, this search for belonging can sometimes lead them into dangerous corners of the internet, where extremist ideologies spread unchecked. To better understand this growing threat, Chris Pearson, former Department of Homeland Security official and CEO of Black Cloak—a digital executive protection company—offered expert insight during a recent interview.
Chris Pearson explained that narrative manipulation, disinformation, and propaganda are central tactics used by extremists online. “A lot of what happens on social media involves changing facts, disinformation, and misinformation,” Pearson said. “Both domestic groups and foreign nation-states engage in these tactics, making it critical that users, especially young people, filter the content they consume.”
One particularly troubling aspect of this issue is the use of gaming platforms such as Discord, where individuals can communicate through chats, voice, and video in a shared online community. These platforms were originally designed for gamers to connect and enjoy entertainment together. However, their structure makes them ideal for extremists seeking to reach a vulnerable audience.
“Gaming platforms offer a shared sense of connectivity,” Pearson explained. “They provide a low-barrier way for people to communicate freely, with minimal content moderation. As a result, someone trying to push an agenda can easily reach young teens and adults who are already spending significant time there.”
Parents often view platforms like Discord as innocent gaming hangouts, unaware of the potential dangers. Pearson emphasized the importance of recognizing warning signs of radicalization. He identified five key indicators that parents and friends should watch for:
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Anonymous Personas and Fringe Content – Individuals who hide their real identity or follow extremist content are raising a major red flag.
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Social Withdrawal – A sudden withdrawal from family, friends, and normal social activities signals potential trouble.
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Hostility and Extremism – Increased aggressiveness or hostility toward others, especially when expressing extreme political or ideological views, can be alarming.
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Paranoia – Obsessive fears of being monitored by government entities or other groups suggest growing radical tendencies.
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Violent Discussions – Conversations that express interest in violence or suggest violent solutions to problems are the most serious warning sign.
“These five warning signs are crucial to monitor,” Pearson stressed. “If we spot these behaviors early, there’s a chance to intervene before things spiral out of control.”
Governor Cox echoed these concerns in his public statements, stressing that radicalization is not only a national issue but one that affects individual families. He further highlighted the role of social media companies, pointing out that their algorithms are designed to maximize engagement—often by promoting outrage and divisive content.
The Charlie Kirk assassination is a tragic reminder that digital spaces are not inherently safe and can be exploited by radical actors. Both parents and policymakers must take proactive steps to ensure young people are protected from harmful influences online. This includes implementing stronger moderation practices on gaming platforms and educating families about the warning signs of online radicalization.
As investigations into the murder continue, the conversation around digital safety and the responsibility of tech companies grows more urgent. The message is clear: combating radicalization requires awareness, vigilance, and collective action—from individuals, families, and the technology industry alike.