According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), they have seen a huge increase in the number of cases involving children and teens being threatened and coerced by adults into sending explicit images online.
Sextortion can start on any site, app, or game where people meet and communicate. In some cases, the first contact from the criminal will be a threat. The person may claim to already have a revealing picture or video of a child that will be shared if the victim does not send more pictures. More often, however, this crime starts when young people believe that they are communicating with someone their own age who is interested in a relationship. The adult will use threats, gifts, money, flattery, or lies to get a young person to produce an image.
After the criminals have one or more videos or pictures, they threaten to share them, publish them, or they threaten violence to get the victim to produce more images. The shame, fear, and confusion children feel when they are caught in this cycle often prevents them from asking for help or reporting the abuse.
Parents and caregivers are strongly encouraged to discuss this issue with young people in an effort to help prevent them from becoming a victim. Regularly talk with your kids and teens about being safe online.
If young people are being exploited or are a victim, they should contact the police department and can also contact the local FBI field office at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov