We’ve previously shared sextortion resources and information with you – https://deangeliscenter.org/safetyprepared-sextortion/
Here’s a great list of red flags to watch for and conversation starters with your children of all ages! https://www.missingkids.org/netsmartz/topics/sextortion
Red Flags
Recognizing the red flags associated with sextortion can help you protect yourself or your family.
For Children:
Someone trying to groom you might:
- Flatter you.
- Send you gifts, like cell phones or money
- Discuss adult subjects, like sex.
- Ask you to keep secrets, such as not telling anyone about the relationship.
- Turn you against your family and friends – they want you to depend on them.
- Share or ask for revealing images.
- Blackmail you. If you’ve shared revealing images or secrets with someone, they may threaten to make them public unless you send more content or money. Paying the money and sending additional content rarely stops the blackmailing. THE BLACKMAILER COULD CONTINUE TO ASK FOR MORE. Most times payment of money or additional content does not ensure that the images or videos won’t be spread online. THE BLACKMAILER CAN’T BE TRUSTED. Instead, tell an adult you trust and/or report it to NCMEC immediately so they can help report it to law enforcement.
For Parents:
Red flags could include your child:
- Receiving gifts through the mail, such as cell phones, gift cards, and webcams.
- Calling unknown numbers.
- Rejecting family and friends in favor of spending time online.
- Getting upset when he or she can’t get online.
- Minimizing the screen or turning off the monitor when you come into the room.
