What Is Sextortion?

Sextortion typically begins with a perpetrator obtaining intimate images, through hacking, romantic deception, or fabrication, and then threatening to release them unless the victim complies with demands. Demands most commonly involve money transfers, cryptocurrency payments, or additional sexual images. The FBI received over 18,500 sextortion complaints in 2023, with reported losses exceeding $54 million. Victims are overwhelmingly women and minors, though men are increasingly targeted through financial sextortion scams.

Key facts about this term

1. Do not pay or comply with demands Payment almost never stops the abuse. Perpetrators typically demand more once they know a victim will pay. Document everything and contact law enforcement.
2. Preserve all evidence before reporting Screenshot threatening messages, note usernames, and record any platform where images were posted. This evidence supports law enforcement investigations.
3. Seek assistance to report the incident Even when content has been shared, users should file their own reports to platforms where images were posted or seek help.