Last Updated on July 7, 2023
Sextortion is a form of sexual exploitation gaining traction on social media apps like Snapchat. These criminals will stop at nothing until they get what they want – leaving victims feeling helpless and alone. But you can take steps to protect yourself from these predators. Read on to find out everything you need to know on how to stop sextortion on Snapchat once and for all.
Will Sextortionists Follow Through on Snapchat?
Online sextortion is a disturbing trend involving the manipulation of individuals, typically young adults, into sharing explicit photos or videos through the popular app Snapchat. What sets this crime apart from traditional blackmail is the unique nature of Snapchat.
Due to the app’s self-destructing feature, users feel more comfortable sharing intimate content, knowing that it will disappear after a few seconds. Criminals looking to exploit vulnerable individuals can exploit this false sense of security. However, the question remains: will sextortionists follow through on their threats if the victim refuses to comply?
While it is impossible to say what any particular criminal will do, do not assume that they will keep their word. Even if you comply with their demands, the individual may still publish the sexually explicit images or materials anyway. One thing is certain, though – sextortionists will always look for new ways to exploit others and stop at nothing to get what they want. So, it is vital to stay informed and stay safe online.
What Happens if You Ignore Sextortion?
Sometimes, ignoring sextortion may seem like a simple solution to make the problem disappear. However, the truth is that the extortionist might not give up easily. They may persist in threatening or blackmailing you. They can intensify their attacks and reveal your sensitive information if they sense you are trying to ignore them. Therefore, the right approach is to take immediate steps to prevent the situation from escalating.
Steps:
1. Do not negotiate with the criminals or pay any ransom they may demand. Instead, document every detail of the incident- take screenshots of the messages, emails, and any other forms of communication from the extortionist.
2. Report the crime to the authorities as soon as possible. You can file a police report with your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Moreover, it is advisable to report the incident to Snapchat directly.
3. Immediately secure all your accounts. To prevent further extortion or hacking attempts, ensure you have strong passwords, use 2-factor authentication, and set your Snapchat to ghost mode.
4. Lastly, seek support from friends and family. Sextortion is a serious crime that can take an emotional toll on its victims. Talking to a trusted friend or family member about what happened to you can be a significant step in the healing process.
Who Can Help You to Stop Sextortion on Snapchat?
If you are seeking help on Snapchat, rest assured that there are many resources available. Start by checking out Snapchat’s Safety Snapshot for privacy tips and tricks. Alternatively, you can seek assistance from non-profit organizations like the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative that can help provide resources and support for victims of sextortion. Finally, reach out to third-party companies like Cyber Investigation are designed to go after cybercriminals alike. Our dedicated agents are available round-the-clock to offer assistance through our 24/7 sextortion hotline. We are here to help you!
Conclusion:
The best defense against sextortion lies in prevention. Do not share sensitive photos or videos of yourself with anyone you do not trust completely. Use all the privacy settings on the app for a more secure experience. Be cautious of who you add to your Snap streaks list. Remember that in the virtual world, it is impossible to verify someone’s true identity and motives.
If you or someone you know has additional questions on how to stop sextortion on Snapchat, do not hesitate to contact us for more information. At Cyber Investigation, we understand the seriousness of sextortion on Snapchat, and we are here to help. With our industry-leading technology, we can easily track these criminals and bring them to justice. Talk to one of our experienced case managers today, and let us help you put an end to this crime.
