Blackmail and sextortionLion level
Online blackmail: someone demands money not to publish your information
The situation
You are being blackmailed online: the person threatens to publish sensitive personal information unless you send them money. What should you do?
The right reflex
Take screenshots of the messages, report the incident to the relevant authorities and tell the people close to you about the situation
Explanation and advice
Do not give in or communicate with the blackmailer. Tell your circle of trust about the situation: close friends, family members or colleagues you trust. They can offer emotional support and advice. If the blackmail is happening on a social media platform, a website or a messaging app, report the incident to the platform administrator. They can take steps to suspend or delete the blackmailer’s account.
If you face online harassment, remember these 5 steps
- Take screenshots: they are your evidence.
- Report the content or the account to the platform.
- Talk to someone you trust so you don't face it alone.
- Contact the relevant authorities with your evidence.
- File a complaint if needed, with support.
Similar situations
- Anonymous emails threatening to expose you with false information
- Sextortion on Instagram: someone demands intimate photos, what should you do?
- Hateful messages on your blog because of your religion: what should you do?
- A fake LinkedIn profile discrediting you professionally: what should you do?