My teenager has shared an intimate image and is now being threatened. What's the first thing I should do?

Reassure them it's not their fault and they were right to tell you, then act fast. Do not pay or send anything more, as paying rarely stops the threats. Stop contact but don't delete the account or messages, as they're evidence. Report to CEOP and the police, and use Report Remove (Childline and the IWF) to get images taken down. Childline (0800 1111) supports your teen.

How can I talk to my teenager about sextortion without it sounding like I'm accusing them?

Lead with care, not warnings. Explain that criminals, often organised gangs, deliberately target teenagers by posing as peers, and that anyone can be fooled. Make clear that if it ever happens, they won't be in trouble and you'll help. The aim is that they feel able to come to you immediately, because the danger grows when shame keeps a young person silent.

Sextortion Awareness for Teenagers

What every teenager and parent needs to know about sextortion — how it happens, how to prevent it, and what to do if it occurs.

Sextortion is a growing threat to teenagers in the UK, where someone threatens to share intimate images unless the victim complies with demands — usually for money or more images. Teenagers aged 14–16 are frequently targeted because they are more likely to be exploring relationships online. This page provides clear, non-judgemental information for both parents and teens.

How Sextortion Works

A perpetrator typically makes contact through social media or gaming platforms, builds a relationship, and persuades the teenager to share intimate images or engage in video chat. They then threaten to share the material with the teenager's friends, family, or school unless demands are met. In many cases, the perpetrator is part of an organised criminal group operating from overseas.

Prevention Strategies

Talk openly with your teenager about sextortion without making them feel judged. Explain that they should never share intimate images with anyone, even someone they trust, and that genuine friends or partners will never pressure them to do so. Encourage them to keep social media profiles private and to be cautious about accepting friend requests from strangers.

What to Do If It Happens

If your teenager is being sextorted, reassure them that it is not their fault and that help is available. Do not pay or comply with any demands. Report to CEOP, the platform where contact occurred, and the police. The IWF can help get images removed from the internet. Childline also offers confidential support for young people affected by sextortion.

External sources

Advice for parents and carers — Thinkuknow (CEOP)
Keeping children safe online — NSPCC

Frequently Asked Questions

This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.