Law enforcement across the United States is seeing a rise in sextortion, a crime involving children and teens being threatened or coerced into sending explicit images online.
In light of this phenomenon, local agencies are seeking to boost the public’s understanding of the crime.
In a Friday morning news release, the Glasgow Police Department outlined the difference between traditional sextortion and financial sextortion—noting that both crimes can occur on any site, app, messaging platform or game where individuals meet and communicate.
Glasgow Police Department said in some traditional sextortion cases, the first contact from the criminal will be a threat. The person may claim to already have an explicit photo or video of a child that will be shared if the victim does not send more pictures.
The press release said more often this crime starts when young people believe they are communicating with someone their own age who is interested in a relationship, or with someone who is offering something of value.
After the criminals have obtained one or more photos or videos, they threaten to publish the content, or threaten violence, to compel the victim to produce more images.
Glasgow Police Department said caregivers and young people alike should understand how sextortion occurs and openly discuss online safety.
The agency said 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.
Financial sextortion cases are increasing nationwide as well.
In contrast to traditional sextortion, in these cases, the offender receives sexually explicit material from the child and then threatens to release the compromising material unless the victim sends money and/or gift cards. The amount requested varies, and the offender often releases the victim’s sexually explicit material regardless of whether or not they receive payment.
This increasing threat has resulted in an “alarming” number of deaths by suicide, according to the Glasgow Police Department.
Sextortion crimes should be reported by contacting the local police department. Victims and families may also report crimes to the FBI through calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or report it online through their electronic tip form.
Resources for sextortion victims and loved ones can be found here.
Source: WBKO
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