In this digital age there are more and more predators looking to take advantage of children and young people. Sextortion is a terrifying form of blackmail that is affecting more and more young people in the UK everyday. Being informed on the signs and dangers of sextortion can help to protect children and young people.
FAQs
Most sextortion takes place online through social media, dating apps, webcams or pornography sites. Criminals use fake identities to befriend and catfish their victims, convincing them to send intimate images. Once these images have been shared then the criminals reveal themselves and the blackmail begins.
Sextortion can be committed by individuals, but there has been an increase in organised crime gangs taking part in sextortion. Often these gangs are based outside of the UK and target young men and even underaged boys within the UK.
Unlike other forms on image-based sexual assault, men and boys are often the victims of sextortion. What is the impact on victims of sextortion? Many people impacted by Sextortion are overwhelmed by the pressure of the situation and fear of their intimate images being shared with their family, friends and at times colleagues and strangers.
Victims of Sextortion often blame themselves and it is vital that they understand it is not their fault. They have been tricked or deceived and there are organisations who can offer support. In severe cases victims of sextortion have committed suicide due to the shame and anxiety the experienced has caused.