Sextortion reports to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) have increased dramatically — over 18,500 complaints in 2023 alone. Despite this, most cases go unreported because victims feel ashamed or fear that reporting will expose them. Law enforcement agencies emphasize that victims are not at fault and that reports are kept confidential. Reporting also helps law enforcement disrupt criminal networks that target thousands of victims. This guide provides the specific steps for reporting and content removal.

Key facts about this term

  1. Preserve all evidence before taking any other action Screenshot all threatening messages, note usernames and platform handles, and document any posted content with URLs. Do not delete any communications — they are essential for criminal investigations.
  2. Report to FBI IC3 at ic3.gov The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center processes sextortion reports and coordinates with domestic and international law enforcement. Reports are confidential and do not require you to identify yourself publicly.
  3. File Section 223a removal notices for any posted content If content has already been posted, use ScanErase to identify all platforms hosting it and file mandatory 48-hour removal notices. Do this in parallel with law enforcement reporting.

Frequently asked questions

Will reporting sextortion make the situation worse?

Law enforcement and victim advocates consistently advise that reporting does not escalate sextortion. Perpetrators rely on victim silence. Law enforcement can take action against criminal networks that individual victims cannot.

Should I pay the perpetrator to stop?

No. Payment almost never stops sextortion — it signals that the victim will pay, leading to increased demands. Report to law enforcement and focus on content removal rather than paying demands.

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