Modern Cults Still Active: The Hidden Threat You Need to Know

When you hear the word “cult,” you might think of dramatic news stories or eerie documentaries. But cults aren’t just relics of the past—they’re still around, operating in the shadows, and causing real harm. Families and law enforcement are always on high alert because these groups often exploit vulnerable people. And many cults continue to flourish even after their leaders are gone, either from death or incarceration. Let’s break down some of the cults still active today, why they’re on the radar, and what makes them so dangerous.

What Exactly Is a Cult?

At its core, a cult is usually a group centered around a charismatic leader or a rigid belief system. But it’s not just about having strong beliefs—what sets cults apart is how they manipulate and control their members. This can include emotional abuse, financial exploitation, social isolation, and sometimes even physical harm. Not every cult is breaking the law, but many toe that line and some cross it completely.

Cults You Should Know About

Here are 6 that are still active:

NXIVM 

You might remember NXIVM from the headlines—it was supposed to be a self-help group, but it turned out to be a front for a horrifying sex cult. Its leader, Keith Raniere, is in prison now, but that doesn’t mean NXIVM is gone. Some die-hard followers still uphold his twisted teachings, which is unsettling, to say the least.

Twelve Tribes

This group looks like a peaceful religious community at first glance, but behind the scenes, it’s been accused of child labor, abuse, and keeping kids from getting a proper education. Former members talk about harsh punishments and being cut off from the outside world. Authorities keep an eye on them, especially when it comes to child welfare.

Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS)

FLDS is infamous for its leader Warren Jeffs, who’s in prison for horrific crimes. But the group hasn’t disappeared. They’re still active, practicing polygamy, forcing underage marriages, and maintaining extreme control over members. Law enforcement is especially worried about the kids growing up in this environment.

Shincheonji Church of Jesus (Spreading Globally)

This group made headlines during the COVID-19 pandemic, being accused of for spreading the virus in South Korea. They’re known for sneaky recruitment tactics, like infiltrating other churches. Their secretive, authoritarian style has raised red flags for both religious communities and concerned families.

The Rajneesh Movement (now known as Osho International)

This movement continues to attract followers worldwide, particularly among younger generations. As of 2024, Osho’s teachings were still being disseminated through social media and other platforms, reaching new audiences

Zizians

This group, described as a radical cult by some, was linked to violent incidents in early 2025. Ziz preaches a doctrine of radical high-tech veganism that promotes punishing your ideological enemies. The cult also actively recruits trans people. They were allegedly connected to attacks on a witness in Vallejo and a border patrol agent in Vermont.

How Do Cults Reel People In?

Cults are masters of manipulation. Here’s how they hook people:

• Love Bombing: When you first join, they drown you in praise, attention, and affection to make you feel special and wanted.
• Isolation: They encourage you to cut ties with friends and family, so the cult becomes your whole world.
• Us-vs-Them Mentality: They paint the outside world as evil or dangerous, making you believe the cult is your only safe haven.
• Fear and Guilt: They use threats or guilt trips to control your behavior. Leave the group? Risk eternal damnation, or worse.
• Financial Exploitation: They might demand huge donations or free labor, all in the name of devotion.

Why Are Authorities Worried?

Cults aren’t just weird groups with strange beliefs. They can be downright dangerous:

• Crime: Many cults get involved in illegal stuff like fraud, abuse, and even human trafficking.
• Mental Health: The emotional abuse can leave lasting scars—PTSD, depression, anxiety, you name it.
• Violence: Some cults have turned violent, either toward members who try to leave or against outsiders they see as threats.

What If Someone You Love Is Involved?

If you think a friend or family member is caught up in a cult, here’s what you can do:

• Keep the Lines Open: Don’t cut them off. Stay connected, be patient, and avoid judgment.
• Learn About the Group: The more you know about the cult’s beliefs and tactics, the better you’ll understand what your loved one is going through.
• Get Professional Help: There are experts in cult recovery who can guide you on the best approach.
• Call in the Pros: If there’s abuse or criminal activity involved, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement.

Ongoing Interest in Cult Phenomena

The continued fascination with cults is evident in recent media and academic discussions:

• Netflix released new documentaries about cults in 2024, including “Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey” about the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints (FLDS) and “Bikram: Yogi, Guru, Predator” about the controversial yoga movement.
• A YouTube video titled “30 Most Disturbing Cults That Are STILL ACTIVE” was released on February 1, 2025, indicating ongoing public interest in active cults.
• Academic discussions, such as a talk by Poulomi Saha at UC Berkeley in late 2024, explored the reasons behind the surge in cult-related media and what it reveals about society.
• The American Historical Association published an article in August 2024 discussing the media’s role in legitimizing or denigrating new religious movements as either faiths or cults.

These sources suggest that while some well-known cults have faced legal challenges or leadership changes, the phenomenon of cults remains a topic of significant public and academic interest in 2025.

The Bottom Line

Cults haven’t gone anywhere. They’re still out there, preying on vulnerable people, hiding behind promises of salvation, community, or self-improvement. Knowing the signs, staying informed, and reaching out for help can make all the difference when it comes to protecting yourself or someone you love from falling into their grip.

10 Ways To Tell If You Are Going Insane

Mental health concerns can manifest in various ways, and recognizing the signs of declining mental well-being is crucial for early intervention and support. From changes in sleep patterns and mood swings to social withdrawal and difficulty coping with daily life, there are several indicators that may suggest a person is experiencing serious mental health issues.

READ: 10 Ways To Tell If You Are Going Insane

Is Your Doctor Dismissing Your Symptoms? Here’s How to Deal with Medical Gaslighting

Medical gaslighting, where healthcare providers dismiss or minimize patients’ symptoms and concerns, can have severe consequences for both physical and mental well-being. Recognizing the signs of medical gaslighting and knowing how to respond are crucial skills for patients navigating the healthcare system.

This article explores the common indicators of medical gaslighting, legal protections available to patients, effective documentation strategies, and resources for those facing this challenging situation. By understanding these aspects, patients can better advocate for themselves and ensure they receive the quality care they deserve.

READ: Is Your Doctor Dismissing Your Symptoms? Here’s How to Deal with Medical Gaslighting

Join Us

Join us on this empowering journey as we explore, celebrate, and elevate “her story.” The Queen Zone is not just a platform; it’s a community where women from all walks of life can come together, share their experiences, and inspire one another. Welcome to a space where the female experience takes center stage. Sign up for our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing, Queen!