By Floyd Godfrey, PhD

Sextortion, a form of online exploitation where individuals are coerced into providing explicit images or money under threat, has become increasingly prevalent among teenagers. The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) reports a significant rise in such cases, particularly involving teenage boys (National Center for Missing & Exploited Children [NCMEC], n.d.).

Understanding Sextortion

Sextortion typically involves a perpetrator obtaining a sexual image from a teen through deceit or coercion and then threatening to share it publicly unless further demands are met. These demands may include additional explicit content, sexual favors, or monetary payment. Offenders often use fake profiles to befriend and manipulate their targets (NCMEC, n.d.).

Immediate Steps to Take

If you find yourself a victim of sextortion, it's crucial to act promptly and thoughtfully:

• Do Not Panic: Understand that the offender is at fault, not you. Even if you shared an image willingly, the coercion and threats are criminal acts (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Refrain from Complying: Avoid giving in to the blackmailer's demands, as this rarely stops the extortion and may lead to further exploitation (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Preserve Evidence: Keep all communications, screenshots, and any related information. This documentation is vital for reporting and addressing the situation effectively (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Report the Incident: Use the platform's safety features to report the offender's account. Additionally, file a report with NCMEC's CyberTipline at cybertipline.org (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Block the Offender: After reporting, block the perpetrator to prevent further contact. However, do not delete your profile or messages, as they may serve as evidence (NCMEC, n.d.).

Seeking Support

It is essential to reach out to a trusted adult—such as a parent, pastor, teacher, or counselor—who can provide support and assist in navigating the situation. Don’t be alone! Fight the urge to isolate yourself or try to resolve it alone. Push through the embarrassment and get help. NCMEC offers resources to aid in removing explicit content from the internet through their “Take It Down” initiative (NCMEC, n.d.).

Preventative Measures

To reduce the risk of sextortion:

• Be Cautious Online: Avoid sharing explicit images, even with individuals you trust. Understand that once shared, control over these images is lost (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Strengthen Privacy Settings: Adjust social media settings to limit who can contact you and access your information (NCMEC, n.d.).
• Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about online risks and share this knowledge with peers to foster a supportive community (NCMEC, n.d.).

Experiencing sextortion can be overwhelming, but taking decisive actions and seeking support can help you regain control. Remember, the responsibility lies with the offender, and resources are available to assist you through this challenging time (NCMEC, n.d.).

Floyd Godfrey, PhD is a Clinical Sexologist and a Certified Sex Addiction Specialist. He has been guiding clients since 2000 and currently speaks and provides consulting and mental health coaching across the globe. To learn more about Floyd Godfrey, PhD please visit his website: www.FloydGodfrey.com

Reference

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. (n.d.). Sextortion. https://www.missingkids.org/theissues/sextortion