Criminal gangs specialised in online scams, including sextortion. They work in groups, using scripts and hundreds of fake profiles at once.
A quick, easy explanation of all the terms connected to sextortion. Tap a term to find out what it means.
The fixed text plan scammers follow. From compliment to threat: it’s all written out.
Someone pretending to be someone else online. They often use stolen or AI-generated photos to look real.
A fake “bait” profile used to attract targets. Usually attractive, but with not many photos and a vague bio.
A temporary fake account that scammers delete quickly after an extortion attempt.
The “trap” method: pretending to flirt or show romantic interest to lure someone in.
A duplicate social media profile made quickly when the previous one gets taken down.
Building trust with someone online in order to manipulate them later.
An intermediary or fake account used to transfer money.
When your info gets passed on to other gangs who repeat the same threat.
Sexting is a combination of the English words sex and texting. It refers to the exchange of sexually oriented messages, photos or videos. This is usually done on your mobile phone.
Exposing is the act of sharing naked images online, often with private information such as your name, phone number, social media accounts and even home address.