SEXTORTION: What it is and how to protect yourself - By Sensei Liam Musiak

Sextortion is one of the fastest-growing online crimes, and it’s catching good people off guard every single day. It’s when someone threatens to share your private or sexual photos or videos unless you give them what they want — usually money, more images, or personal information.

It’s a modern form of blackmail. And it’s designed to make you panic.

How It Usually Happens

It often starts with a normal chat online. Maybe you’ve matched with someone attractive on Instagram, TikTok, or a dating app. They flirt, they seem genuine, and before long, the conversation becomes private and intimate.

Then they ask for a photo or video — or send one first to make you feel comfortable. As soon as you send yours, the tone changes completely.

Suddenly they’re threatening you. They say things like, “Send me £500 or I’ll send this to your friends and family.”

They might even list names of your followers or send screenshots to make the threat look real.

At that point, fear takes over. That’s exactly what they want.

The Truth Behind It

These people are not who they claim to be.

They’re criminals, not genuine people. Most are part of organised groups targeting hundreds of victims at once, especially young men between 14 and 25.

They don’t care about you — they only care about control and money.

And here’s something most victims don’t realise: even if you pay them, they rarely stop. They’ll just demand more, because they know you’re scared.

What To Do If It Happens

If you ever find yourself in that situation, take a breath. You’re not alone, and you’ve done nothing illegal by being tricked. Follow these steps calmly and firmly:

1. Don’t pay and don’t send more.

   
   

   Paying doesn’t make them stop. It makes them see you as easy money.

2. Save the evidence.

   
   

   Screenshot everything — usernames, messages, payment requests, and their profile link.

3. Report it to the police.

   
   

   In the UK, go to www.ceop.police.uk/safety-centre or call 101.

   
   

   If you’re in immediate danger, call 999.

   
   

   Tell them you’re reporting an online sextortion or blackmail.

4. Report the account on the platform.

   
   

   Whether it’s Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok — use the report option. These companies now work directly with police to shut down sextortion networks.

5. Use StopNCII.org.

   
   

   This site helps you remove intimate images before they spread anywhere online. It’s private and secure.

6. Tell someone you trust.

   
   

   It feels embarrassing, but you’ve done nothing wrong. Silence helps the criminals, not you.

If They Message You Again

If you feel you need to say something before blocking them, keep it simple and strong:

“You’re committing a criminal offence under UK law. This has been reported to the police and to the platform. Do not contact me again.”

Then block and move on.

Remember This

No one has the right to control or threaten you — ever.

If someone tries, that’s a reflection of their crime, not your mistake.

The shame belongs to the criminal, not the victim.

Sextortion thrives on fear and silence, but when you speak up and act fast, you take all their power away.

Stay aware. Stay calm. Protect your peace.