What?
Though not a new trend, sextortion cases have increased. This involves threatening someone online with either the exposure of nude/revealing photos or in an effort to get nude photos.
There have been recent cases of teens ending their lives after this kind of threat, and dealing with it all alone.
Now What?
Online threats, like sextortion and ransomware, aren't new, but they are increasingly sophisticated. Kids need to be aware, not to increase their anxiety, but to know what to do if it happens to them (and to open the conversation).
First, sharing nude or revealing photos with anyone is risky, as it's easy for the pictures to be posted and shared. Conversations about sexting and kids' digital footprint need to focus on understanding the risk, rather than shaming or blaming if sextortion were to happen.
Whether someone is threatening them for pictures, money, or something else, they do not have to feel trapped! They should tell someone they trust so they don't feel alone and can get help. You can also contact the FBI to start an investigation.
