RCMP warn of increased cases of sextortion in Vernon and area
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP is warning the public that regional trends show increases in youth being sexually extorted.
Mounties have investigated 14 cases of sextortion locally since January 1, 2022.
Sextortion is a form of blackmail that sees a perpetrator threaten to make sexual images or videos of a victim public. This threat is typically made online, with the images or video also being put online.
“Typically, the fraudster will contact the victim through a social media platform such as Snapchat or Instagram, using a fake account,” stated Constable Ashley Fast of the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP Special Victim’s Unit.
“The fraudster lures the victim into sending a sexual image or performing a sexual act which they secretly record. Shortly after, the fraudster threatens to share the images if the victim doesn’t pay or provide more sexual content.”
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP say a large percentage of the cases already investigated this year involve teenagers. Police are encouraging parents and caregivers to talk with their kids about the danger of sextortion and the potential consequences of their online behaviour.
“Our teens need to know that it is never a good idea to share intimate images or videos online,” added Cst Fast.
“We understand for some parents it may be difficult discussing these topics with their kids but it’s necessary. Remember, it may be uncomfortable at first, but it gets easier.”
Fast also stated with social media being such a large part of teens’ lives, they should be taught to act responsibly and good online habits to help protect them from sextortion.
In an effort to educate people and establish good practices to stay safe online, the RCMP have some tips.
For Kids:
- Think before you post – information is instant, public and permanent
- Do not accept friend requests on social media from unknown people
- Do not share or send intimate images of yourself with anyone – if you aren’t okay with the world seeing it, do not send it
- Use privacy settings on social media and keep personal information to a minimum
- Trust your instincts, if anything about an interaction makes you feel uncomfortable then end the conversation immediately
For Parents:
- Be open about online behaviour, place computers in busy family areas
- Make online activity part of your regular conversations
- Encourage your teen to take breaks away from devices
- Work with your children on how to behave safely online from a young age
For Victims of Sextortion
- Stop communicating with that person immediately
- Do not comply with the threat and not send money or additional images
- Save existing correspondence to share with police
Additional information and resources can be found at the Need Help Now and Cyber Tip websites.