Buffalo shooting highlights threat of online extremism amid pandemic

The incident points to a toxic blend of circumstances, including heightened social media use, experts told ABC.

In the early months of the pandemic, security experts sounded the alarm over the possible escalation of online radicalization and terrorist violence as people isolated and spent more time on social media.

An internal Department of Homeland Security memo in early 2020 cautioned that the new pandemic lifestyle could “increase the vulnerability of some citizens to mobilize to violence.” The U.N. warned in a November 2020 report of cases involving “malicious” use of social media for fomenting extremist beliefs.

The suspect behind an attack on Saturday at a supermarket in Buffalo, New York – which left 10 dead, all of whom were Black, and three others wounded – appears to have posted writing that epitomizes these fears. In a 180-page document, 18-year-old Payton Gendron, allegedly shared a litany of bigoted views and conspiracy theories. One theory he espoused -- "replacement theory" -- argues that Democrats are trying to bring about a demographic shift to consolidate power.

Gendron has pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges.