Crime in Aberdeenshire and Moray: Police warn of 'Sextortion'
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A warning has been issued by police following instances of 'Sextortion' in the North East.
Sextortion usually involves people being lured into taking off some or all of their clothes in front of their webcam, only to be told that they have been recorded.
Offenders then issue threats that, unless money is paid, the video will be posted online or shown to the victim’s contacts.
PC Heather Nelson, who is a Crime Reduction Officer, stated that the consequences can go far beyond just embarrassment.
In extreme cases, victims have even taken their own lives.
She added: "Do not accept friendship requests from complete strangers, irrespective of ‘mutual friend’ status.
"Also update the privacy settings on your social networking accounts so only people you know can view them.
"If you do become a victim, do not pay and do not communicate further with the offenders.
"Instead, report the incident to the police via 101 and also report it to the relevant social networking site.
"Keep all evidence of the communications you have had, taking screenshots if you can.
"Do not delete any correspondence."
