Report Blackmail Email

Blackmail consists of a cybercriminal threatening to release their target’s private data if they don’t comply with outlined demands. They often include information that they accessed from public records or previous data breaches to make the threat seem legitimate. However, they likely don’t have access to the data they claim.

Instead, the blackmailer is hoping that the email they sent will scare you into compliance. They may even spoof the header to appear like they hacked your account and sent the email from your address. However, if the message is generic and they fail to show proof of possessing your data, it’s likely a bluff.

Nonetheless, it’s important to treat any threat to your online safety with the upmost caution. You should investigate the matter thoroughly to assess the validity of the threat. Consider the assistance of professional digital investigators as you proceed.

Email blackmailers are crafty, but there are practices you can implement that can decrease their ability to reach you. Consider the following recommendations that can help you prevent falling victim to a blackmail email scheme.

• Utilize Privacy Settings. Turn on spam filters to exclude blackmail and other scam messages before they reach your inbox.
• Avoid Suspicious Links. Don’t click on links or attachments that have unknown destinations. You can hover over hyperlinks in emails to see the full URL and determine if they are legitimate.
• Analyze Email Headers. The blackmailer may spoof the sender information to appear as a legitimate entity or even your own address. Analyze the address for any characters that don’t match the verified address of the supposed sender.

If your situation has progressed past the point of prevention, all hope is not lost. Consider the following suggestions when taking your initial steps to combat email blackmail:

• Don’t Indulge the Blackmailer. Paying a blackmailer will not make them go away. In fact, it will only fuel them to keep coming back. Cut off communication but avoid blocking them until you’ve properly investigated the incident.
• Collect Evidence of the Crime. Take screenshots of email address, messages, and any other relevant information that can help recreate a timeline of the incident. You will need this data to demonstrate the crime if you choose to take legal action.
• Talk to Somebody. You shouldn’t try to handle this alone. Tell a friend, family member, or emotional support professional about what you’re going through. You should also report the blackmailer to your email provider and law enforcement.

You should report the email blackmailer to the service provider where the crime occurred. You will want to document their account information as well as threatening messages to support your report. This evidence will also be critical if you choose to pursue legal action.

You should also inform law enforcement. With the evidence you’ve collected, file a police report. You can do this by either going into your local station, contacting them online, or calling over the phone. Furthermore, you should notify the FBI by filing a report at your local field house or online through the IC3.

Unfortunately, there is always a chance. Cybercriminals are unpredictable and often take hasty actions if they feel cornered. Who you are and how you respond can heavily influence the chances of a blackmailer carrying out their threats.

Factors That May Lead a Blackmailer to Follow Through:

• Targets with high social standing — such as celebrities, public figures, and those with a notable net worth and public influence.
• Targets who respond to threats with either a willingness to comply or extreme confrontation.

Factors That May Deter a Blackmailer from Following Through:

• Risk of losing power in their scheme by releasing the content they are leveraging against their target.
• Fear of getting caught, whether it’s from committing additional crimes or your collaboration with law enforcement and cybersecurity professionals.

The information provided herein is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Cyber Investigation is not a law firm and does not provide legal services or legal counsel. Accessing or using this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. This material should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction. For guidance specific to your situation, you are strongly encouraged to consult with your own legal counsel.

Our experts know how to identify the blackmailer, remove their leverage, and prevent the spread of your private data. We use proprietary techniques like metadata analysis and IP-to-location to derive data from emails that can be used to thwart their attack.

The entire investigation is documented to preserve the chain of custody and ensure your report is admissible in legal proceedings. Furthermore, we can help connect you with a law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction to pursue your blackmailer. We can also help you avoid future blackmail emails by providing ongoing threat monitorization.