As technology advances, so do fraudsters’ strategies for exploiting innocent people. Sextortion schemes are one of the growing risks in the internet realm, and the Philippines is no exception. Our Philippines expert investigators explain how sextortion scams work, share important suggestions to avoid becoming a victim and provide advice on what to do if you find yourself in such a difficult scenario.

Understanding Sextortion Scams

Sextortion scams are a form of online extortion that preys on individuals who engage in explicit or compromising activities online. Scammers use various deceptive techniques to obtain sensitive content or personal information from their targets. The most common scenario involves them joining dating apps and social media, and establishing an online relationship with the potential victims.

They’ll gradually gain their victim’s trust by expressing intense romantic feelings, and when they believe the timing is perfect and the victim believes them, they’ll send a nude photograph claiming to be them in exchange for one from the victim or request a video of them performing a sex act.

The scammer then blackmails the victim for money using these photographs or videos. This is when the exploitation begins. The scammer threatens to share the compromising material publicly or send it to the victim’s contacts, friends, or family unless a ransom is paid.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Sextortion Scams

Be Wary of Strangers Online: Exercise caution when interacting with people you meet online, especially if they seem too eager to build an intimate relationship quickly. Remember that not everyone is who they claim to be on the internet.

Limit Personal Information Sharing: Avoid sharing sensitive information or explicit content with anyone online, even if you think you trust them. Once shared, you lose control over how it may be used or distributed.

Avoid Face-to-Face Video Calls with Strangers: Refrain from engaging in video calls with individuals you have just met online, especially if they request explicit content or intimate gestures during the call.

Hire background check investigations before getting too involved: A background check in the Philippines is a cost-effective way to understand who you are communicating with. It helps uncover red flags like previous accusations of having this kind of behavior, and it uncovers those using fake identities.

Steps to Take If You Fall Victim to Sextortion

Don’t Panic: While it’s an alarming situation, try to remain calm. Panicking might lead to making hasty decisions that could worsen the situation.

Cut Off All Contact: Immediately cease all communication with the scammer, block their accounts, and report them on the platform where you met them.

Preserve Evidence: Take screenshots of any conversations, pictures, or videos exchanged with the scammer. This evidence may be crucial when reporting the incident to authorities.

Report the Incident: Contact your local authorities or the Philippine National Police Cybercrime Unit to report the sextortion attempt. Provide them with all the evidence you have gathered.

Seek Support: Reach out to trusted private investigators in the Philippines to help contain the situation. Local investigators in Manila and Cebu can help you approach local authorities, and in some cases, they can guide you on the necessary steps to contact the criminal and request to cease and desist.

Sextortion scams can have devastating consequences for victims, both emotionally and socially. It’s crucial to be vigilant and cautious when navigating the online world. By following the provided tips to protect yourself and understanding the steps to take if you become a victim, you can reduce the risk of falling prey to these virtual predators. Remember, knowledge and awareness are powerful tools to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from the dark corners of the internet. Stay informed, stay safe.

C. Wright

© Copyright Philippine PI.  All Rights Reserved.  This content is the property of Philippine PI, LLC and is protected by the United States of America and international copyright laws.