Sextortion Scams Are on the Rise - Here's How to Stay Safe

Sextortion is a growing online threat, often targeting teen males ages 14-17. It occurs when criminals trick or pressure someone into sharing explicit images, then demand money to keep those images private. Offenders often pose as a friend, romantic interest, or even a celebrity, using fear and urgency to manipulate victims over days, weeks, or longer.

Sextortion isn’t just emotional manipulation, it’s a financial scam that often involves popular payment apps like PayPal or Venmo.

How to Stay Safe:

• Watch for scare tactics and a false sense of urgency.
• Keep an eye out for red flags: new profiles, few photos, poor grammar, refusal to use video.
• Be cautious when meeting new people on the internet, not everyone online is who they claim to be.
• Only send money to people you know, and regularly review your payment app activity.

What to Do If You Find Yourself Speaking with a Possible Sextortionist:

• Stop all communication immediately.
• If you’re under 18, tell a trusted adult right away.
• Report to authorities: call your local police or the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Remember: “Pause, don’t panic, don’t pay. Talk to someone you trust and report right away!”