What sextortion is, how it targets young people, and what to do if your child is being blackmailed with intimate images.
Sextortion occurs when someone threatens to share intimate or sexual images of a child unless they comply with demands — often for more images, money, or other favours. It is a growing threat that disproportionately affects teenagers, and it can escalate very rapidly.
Offenders typically make contact through social media or gaming platforms, often posing as a peer or romantic interest. After building trust, they persuade the young person to share an intimate image. Once obtained, they threaten to send it to friends, family, or school contacts unless the child complies with further demands. Some organised crime groups run sextortion operations at scale, targeting multiple victims simultaneously.
1. Have honest conversations about intimate images
Explain that sharing intimate images — even with someone they trust — creates a permanent risk. Make it clear that if something goes wrong, they will not be in trouble for coming to you.
2. Teach critical thinking about online identities
Help your child understand that people online may not be who they claim to be. Discuss how offenders use fake photos, flattery, and emotional manipulation to build false trust.
3. Enable strict privacy settings
Lock down social media profiles so that only approved contacts can send messages or view personal information. Disable the ability for strangers to initiate video calls.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-19