Police are issuing a reminder to the public after a St. Clair Township resident was involved in a “sextortion” scam involving intimate pictures.
The Ontario Provincial Police said the victim received a “follow” request on a popular social media platform and a brief online relationship ensued. During this time, intimate images were shared and the victim began receiving messages threatening to share them with friends and family if money was not sent.
A payment was made to the unknown individual, however, a second payment request was then demanded. Authorities were then notified on Sunday shortly before 2 a.m.
Police are reminding the public that there is always a risk in sharing intimate images over the internet. If someone demands payment or threatens to share photos or videos, never pay the money. Screenshot the messages and usernames, block them from social media, and contact police immediately.
Police said it is estimated that only five to 10 per cent of frauds are reported, often due to embarrassment.
