sextortion

Sextortion is a form of coercion in which a person threatens to reveal private, often explicit, sexual material or information about another person unless a demand is met. The material can be photos, videos, or intimate details, and the threat may target a victim’s reputation, relationships, or employment.

Perpetrators may obtain material through phishing, hacking, compromised accounts, or by posing as a trusted confidant in fake profiles. Victims are typically contacted online or via messaging apps, and the pressure to comply can be intense, ranging from payment demands to promises of continued intimacy.

Sextortion can affect anyone but is disproportionately reported among young people and online communities. In many jurisdictions, extortion involving sexual material is illegal, and if a minor is involved, the offense commonly falls under child exploitation or sexual abuse laws. Even when the content involves consenting adults, threats to disclose it can be criminal.

The consequences for victims include psychological distress, financial loss, and damage to relationships and employment. If targeted, it is usually advised not to pay or engage further, to preserve evidence, and to seek help from authorities and support organizations.

Prevention focuses on digital safety: limiting the sharing of intimate material, using strong privacy settings, securing accounts, and being cautious of impersonation. Platforms often provide reporting mechanisms to remove content and block perpetrators, and users should back up data and monitor account activity.

If you are a victim or witness to sextortion, report to local law enforcement or cybercrime units. Many countries offer helplines and online reporting channels, such as national cybercrime centers or child protection services.