Strathcona County RCMP investigate recent sextortion scams
Strathcona County, Alta. –RCMP in Strathcona County say they have received three reports of “sextortion” scams since the beginning of June.
Police say sextortion is a form of exploitation that involves the threat of releasing shared intimate videos, images, or explicit messages online. Victims are typically lured into an online relationship through social media. As the relationship builds, victims are coerced into performing a sexual act on camera. The victim is later advised that the event was recorded and to pay a fee or the video or photo will be released publicly. In some cases, the victim might be asked to send more explicit images.
Strathcona County RCMP say the reported incidents and social media platforms used may differ, but the results are usually the same – payments were requested to avoid having nude or compromising photos or video of sexual acts being released publicly to friends and family.
“It’s never a good idea to share intimate photos of yourself online even if it’s with a person you trust,” said Cst. Chantelle Kelly of the Strathcona County RCMP. “Sharing intimate photos leaves you vulnerable to being exploited.”