Sextortion is a form of blackmail

Sextortion is a form of blackmail where a perpetrator coerces someone into sending explicit images or videos, or records them engaging in explicit acts, and then threatens to distribute this content to friends, family, or online if the victim doesn't comply with further demands (e.g., more explicit content, money, gift cards).

How do these scams often work?

Initial Contact: Predators often make contact on gaming platforms, social media apps, or dating apps. They might pretend to be a peer, flatter the victim, or feign romantic interest.

Building Trust: They engage in seemingly genuine conversations to build trust and a "friendship" or "relationship."

The Trap: They then pressure the victim to send explicit images/videos or engage in explicit video chats, which they secretly record.

The Threat: Once they have the content, they reveal their true intentions and threaten to publicize the images/videos unless the victim complies with their demands.

Escalation: Demands can escalate, leading to ongoing victimization as the perpetrator demands more content or money.

Why are teens vulnerable?

Emotional Manipulation: Perpetrators are skilled at manipulating emotions, exploiting a teen's desire for connection, attention, or a romantic relationship.

Fear and Shame: Victims often feel immense shame, embarrassment, and fear of consequences, making them reluctant to tell parents or authorities.

Digital Savvy, but Naive: While teens are digitally native, they may not be fully aware of the risks of online interactions or the permanence of online content.

Perceived Anonymity: The internet can create a false sense of security and anonymity, leading some teens to share more than they would in person.

What can teens and parents do?

Be Skeptical of Strangers Online: Don't accept friend requests or engage in conversations with people you don't know in real life.

Guard Personal Information: Be selective about what you share online, and never give out personal contact information (email, phone number, address) to strangers.

Understand Online Permanence: Anything shared online can be made public and is difficult to erase.

Privacy Settings: Keep social media accounts private.

Open Communication: Parents should create a safe space for their children to talk about anything that happens online, assuring them they won't be in trouble for being a victim.

Limit Online Access: Consider rules around device usage, especially in bedrooms overnight.

Report and Block: If someone makes inappropriate requests, block them immediately and report their behavior to the platform administrator.

Seek Help: If sextortion occurs, report it to law enforcement (like the FBI or local police) or organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).

It's a serious crime with significant emotional and psychological impact on victims. Awareness and open communication are key to prevention and intervention.