KSP cracking down on sextortion

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A new online form of bullying has emerged. It’s called sextortion.

According to the FBI, sextortion is communication through a website or social media that leads to blackmail of explicit pictures.

The crime starts in one of two ways: 1. contact the victim through an intentional threat, 2. try to form a relationship with the victim before harassing.

Once the attackers have one or more photos, they threaten to publish the images if a task is not performed, like compensation.

Anyone can be a victim of this crime. Katan Parker, Public Affairs Officer for Kentucky State Police Post 3, says it’s important for everyone to be aware. Parker urges to use platforms for “the right reasons” to connect with family and friends. He advises to “not just add anybody” on social media.

Parker adds to pay close attention to behavior changes if you believe someone you know is a potential victim of sextortion.

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