A North Yorkshire victim of ‘sextortion’ is being blackmailed for thousands of pounds, it was reported last night.
The person called North Yorkshire Police to say that the offender has demanded they pay money linked to an escort site.
Officers told the victim not to transfer over any money and will investigate.
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The offence was reported during the police’s #NYPfor12 tweetathon, where they reported every incident over 12 hours till 2am this morning (Saturday).
Police reported: “Report of what is known as ‘sextortion’. A form of blackmail where the victim reports that a person they shared intimate images with is demanding thousands of pounds or they will publish them.”
They have advice on what to do if you are targeted by a sextortion blackmailer:
- Don’t panic, help and support is available.
- Don’t pay.
- Save the evidence: Take screenshots. Save messages and images. Collect URL links to where the information is being shared online.
- Report it to social media companies if communication happened on these channels. For example, Facebook or Instagram.
- Report it to your internet service provider.
- Block all communication with the person targeting you.
You can find out more on the North Yorkshire Police website.