Extortion Scams

young man watching his smart phone

Extortion is a disturbing and malicious cybercrime that preys on individuals by leveraging intimate or compromising content. These criminals coerce victims into providing money, valuables, or additional explicit material under the threat of exposing personal and private images or information. It's a deeply distressing experience that can have severe consequences, including emotional trauma and financial loss. To shield yourself from this type of digital blackmail, understanding the risks, detection methods, prevention strategies, and recovery steps is crucial. These scams can also collect personal information, putting victims at risk of identity theft. 

  • Unsolicited Requests: Avoid unsolicited requests for explicit images or personal information.
  • Threats and Demands: If you receive threatening messages demanding money or additional material, it may be a sextortion attempt.
  • Blackmail Tactics: Sextortionists often use fear and intimidation to manipulate victims. Recognize these tactics.
  • Suspicious Contacts: Investigate and verify the identity of the person making demands, especially if they're a stranger.
  • Online Privacy: Be cautious about sharing explicit content or personal information online, even with trusted individuals.
  • Limit online activity: Limit your online activity and avoid posting or sharing sensitive information, such as your location or financial information.
  • "Friend" only the people you know in real life.
  • Secure Social Media Accounts: Adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to limit personal information exposure and reduce the likelihood of being targeted. See the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada Tips for using privacy settings. Or see National Cybersecurity Alliance (staysafeonline.org) Manage Your Privacy Settings.
  • Monitor your accounts: Regularly monitor your social media accounts, email, and other online accounts for any signs of cyberstalking or hacking.
  • Trust Your Instincts: Don't engage with the requester if something feels off or suspicious
  • Educate Yourself: Learn about common online scams and tactics used by extortionists to recognize potential threats.
  • Security Measures: Use strong and unique passwords for your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication.  See CyberCrime Prevention for how to do this. 
  • End Communication: Cease all communication with the extortionist immediately to prevent further victimization.
  • Document Evidence: Preserve any evidence of the extortion, including messages, emails, or images.
  • Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist to help cope with the emotional impact.
  • Online Reputation: Consider professional help to mitigate damage to your online reputation.
  • Legal Assistance: Consult with an attorney, especially if you need assistance with legal action against the perpetrator. 
  • Report the scam to local authorities and the appropriate online fraud reporting agencies.

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