Last Updated on August 8, 2025

Blackmail remains a widespread threat to internet users. In 2024 alone, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center received over 86,000 extortion complaints. That same year, Meta removed over 60,000 accounts that were linked to blackmail schemes. This includes 5,700 Facebook groups in which scammers were offering advice on how to exploit other users. Blackmail with video on Facebook scams are a growing concern, and users need to know what to do if they are targeted.

Common Types of Blackmail with Video on Facebook Scams

Meta has removed over 1 billion fake accounts on Facebook to this point in 2025. This is a clear indicator of just how many suspicious users you need to watch out for on the platform. Blackmailers on Facebook use a variety of tactics to pressure targets into compliance. It’s important to familiarize yourself with their tactics so that you can recognize a scam before it’s too late. Here are the most common forms of blackmail with video on Facebook.

Blackmail with a Video Chat on Facebook

Facebook has evolved past the original purpose of being a social media platform. Now, it has a dating feature, communities, and a marketplace. However, that same versatility also creates opportunities for schemes like the blackmail with video on Facebook scam.

This blackmail with video on Facebook scam is when bad actors lure unsuspecting users into a fraudulent online relationship. Once enough trust is built, they convince the victim to engage in an explicit video call that is secretly recorded. Then, the scammer threatens to release the video publicly unless the victim meets their financial demands.

Blackmail with Shared Videos on Facebook

Similar to blackmail with a video chat on Facebook, catfishers will use fake profiles to lure victims into an online relationship. After gaining the victim’s trust, they persuade them into sharing explicit images. Then, they threaten to expose the images to the victim’s friends or family members unless the victim complies with their demands. This is otherwise known as sextortion.

Sexual Deepfakes

Unfortunately, deepfake technology and AI has only intensified the potential harm of online blackmail. Scammers are using the new technology to create fake explicit images and videos of victims. They may edit victims into already existing explicit videos or use undress AI applications to create false nudes.

Even though these deepfakes are not real, scammers still use them to blackmail victims. They will send direct messages threatening to send the deepfakes to the victim’s friends and family. The blackmailer typically demands a certain amount of money in exchange for keeping the deepfakes private.

Hacked Accounts or Devices

Social engineering tactics are used to manipulate victims into giving the scammers access to their own accounts. These scammers may impersonate trusted organizations or individuals close to the potential victim. Then, they will lure victims into clicking malicious links or visiting fake websites designed to steal their login credentials. After gaining access to the victim’s passwords or systems, they may find incriminating videos and use them for blackmail.

How to Identify the Signs of a Blackmail Attempt

To prevent yourself from falling victim to blackmail, you need to recognize the early signs of it. Scammers use similar scripts and tactics to target victims. This makes it easy to catch onto the common elements used. Here are the warning signs of a blackmail attempt.

• Unsolicited friend requests and messages. Scammers send tens, if not hundreds, of messages to Facebook users hoping someone will respond. Approach all friend requests from someone you don’t know with caution.
• Quickly advancing the relationship. Catfishers will use compliments and affection to quickly establish trust with victims. They will say things like “You’re my soulmate” and “Miss you already.”
• Poor grammar or unnatural language. Many of these blackmailers are not native English speakers. They will make grammar mistakes or word choices that sound unnatural.
• Profiles that were recently created or barely have any posts. Fake profiles are typically recently created and have little to no posts on their timeline.
• Attempt to direct the conversation off the platform. Scammers will attempt to steer a conversation on Facebook off the platform and onto private messaging apps. Encrypted messaging platforms allow criminals to blackmail victims without a lot of oversight.

How to Respond to Blackmail with Video on Facebook Scams

If you have fallen victim to blackmail with video on Facebook, you are not helpless. And you are not alone. There are steps you can take to protect yourself and even fight back against your attacker. Follow these steps if you are dealing with blackmail with video.

1. Do not comply. Victims of blackmail should never comply with the perpetrator’s demands. Giving in to the demands will only encourage the culprit to continue threatening you to extract as much money as possible.
2. Record the evidence. Blackmail is a crime across the country and it’s important to document evidence of the crime. Take screenshots of the messages, the profiles involved, and anything else that is relevant.
3. Report the profile on the platform. Facebook does not tolerate blackmail on its platform. It has a reporting system for users to file a complaint about any inappropriate behavior. This system is anonymous and can lead to the account being removed from the platform for good.
4. Notify the authorities. Your local law enforcement is one of your greatest assets. Filing a report allows the police to create a timeline of events and have a record of your evidence. You should also report the crime to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 tracks national cybercrime trends and can be used to launch an investigation.
5. Work with private cybersecurity firms. Experts at cybersecurity firms can protect victims of blackmail from exposure. Many offer services to detect and remove any images or videos posted without consent. Experts can also follow the data trail left behind by the perpetrator, revealing their geolocation and identity.

Real-Life Case: A Blackmail with Video on Facebook Scam

A sextortion group in the Ivory Coast used an attractive woman’s publicly available images to create an account on Facebook. They named themselves “Emily Thompson” and targeted a teenager in North Dakota. Emily was 20 years old and lived in Montana. The group messaged the victim and started a relationship with him.

Eventually, “Emily” tricked the victim into sharing a video recording along with some images of himself performing explicit acts. However, the events quickly took a turn. “Emily” threatened to expose the video and images unless the victim could meet their demands. However, the teenager couldn’t. Unfortunately, the sextortion group made good on their threat, and after experiencing exposure, the victim took his own life.

The sextortion group now faces charges of cyberstalking, wire fraud, and distribution of child sexual abuse material.

How To Stay Safe from Blackmail Scams on Facebook

The best way to protect yourself from blackmail with video on Facebook is to prevent yourself from being targeted in the first place. Below are proactive steps you should take to reduce your risk of being targeted and stay safe on Facebook.

• Make your account private. You can make your account private, which limits the number of people that will be able to discover your profile. There are also privacy settings that allow users to control who can message them and who can see their profile details.
• Strengthen security settings. If you are being targeted, cybercriminals may attempt to also gain access to your accounts. Make sure you update your passwords and enable two-factor authentication. Your passwords should be strong and unique to each account.
• Avoid clicking any suspicious links. Hackers will use social engineering to lure victims into clicking malicious links, granting access to accounts or devices.
• Vet your friends list. Bad actors who are already on your friends list will have more access to your posts and stories. Vet your friends list and make sure everyone is someone you can trust.

Your Privacy Matters. Protect it by working with Cyber Investigation

If you are a victim of blackmail with video on Facebook, Cyber Investigation can help. We are digital experts who have helped protect thousands of victims. Our experts make preserving your privacy the priority and work tirelessly to prevent exposure. We also have advanced technology that quickly detects and removes any non-consensually posted images and videos. Lastly, we have digital forensic experts who can trace the blackmailer’s digital footprint and put an end to the threats. Contact us today if you want experts to stand by your side.

Last Updated on August 5, 2025

Social media platforms such as Facebook can be used for many different purposes, some of which can be malicious. If you find yourself the victim of blackmail on Facebook, it is essential to take the right steps to protect yourself and your information. This blog post will discuss what to do if someone is blackmailing you on Facebook.

Continue reading What To Do If Someone Is Blackmailing You on Facebook?

Last Updated on July 22, 2025

Technological advancements and barriers to holding cybercriminals accountable have created an online environment where bad actors are free to terrorize vulnerable users. Online blackmail is particularly dangerous because it can be committed from anywhere, at any time, and anonymously. One of the biggest mistakes victims of blackmail make is not asking for help, especially from the right experts. Just like any crime, experts are essential to investigate and put an end to the online blackmail for good. If you’re wondering how to find a blackmail expert, continue reading to find out.

Criteria for Choosing a Blackmail Expert

Not every cybersecurity expert can help with blackmail. It takes specialized expertise and experience to effectively handle a blackmail case and protect victims from exposure. When trying to figure out how to find a blackmail expert, there are 5 key areas you should focus on.

1. Expertise in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics

Blackmailers will often use hacking techniques to gain access to a user’s accounts or devices to look for sensitive information. Cybersecurity experts understand how to determine if your private information has been accessed. They also know how to prevent criminals from gaining access in the future.

On another note, digital forensic experts specialize in collecting and analyzing digital data. They also preserve the data in a way that is admissible as evidence in legal proceedings.

2. Experience with Blackmail Cases

Blackmailers are difficult to predict and can be quick to escalate. However, experts who are well-versed in how cybercriminals operate understand how to communicate with them effectively. They can work to reduce the risk of exposure and rely on their experience to navigate tricky situations.

3. Integrity and Confidentiality

Online blackmail involves sensitive information that needs to be kept private. You need to work with experts who are trained to uphold the utmost respect for privacy. It’s also important for experts to thoroughly document their process, maintaining integrity and transparency when working with blackmail victims.

4. Availability and Response Time

Experts with a high case load can have a delay in response time or limited availability. This can be concerning for blackmail victims that are receiving a barrage of hostile messages and need assistance immediately. Law enforcement agencies, for example, can experience a high volume of cases, leading to slower response times.

5. Reputation and Feedback

Blackmail is a traumatizing experience, and it’s important that any experts you turn to are effective in handling such cases. Looking at reputation is a vital part of how to find a blackmail expert. However, not all blackmail experts are the same. Some may have questionable ethics. You can look at reviews and existing feedback to get a clearer sense of how they operate.

How Experts Can Help with Blackmail and Extortion

Cybercrime experts can help in a multitude of ways. They can help victims fight back against their attackers and can even provide emotional support to help victims recover after being blackmailed. Take note of the following ways experts can help with blackmail and extortion.

• Investigate the cybercrime. Digital forensic experts can follow the trail of data left behind by your blackmailer — revealing their geolocation, the device used in the attack, and identity.
• Preserve evidence. Experts can preserve the evidence discovered in their investigation for victims to use to support future legal actions.
• Take over communications with the blackmailer. Some experts are heavily experienced in communicating with cybercriminals and how to lure them into traps that can be used against them.
• Help with legal action. Legal professionals can help victims take action against their blackmailers. This could be a lawsuit or restraining order.
• Provide emotional support. Blackmail experts understand the emotional distress that can come from being a victim of the crime. They can be a confidant for you to discuss what you’re going through or help you with immediate steps that can protect your privacy.
• Prevent future incidents. Experts can help secure your accounts and devices, reducing the risk of future hacking attempts. They can also educate you on the best online safety practices to avoid falling victim to blackmail in the future. 

How to Find a Blackmail Expert and Where to Find Them

Now that we’ve covered how to find a blackmail expert, we should go through where you can find them. You can work with blackmail experts on either a free or paid basis. Take a look at the following options to see who can assist with blackmail cases.

Law Enforcement

Blackmail victims should always file a report with their local law enforcement. A police report will officially document the crime and can be used to support future legal action. Some departments also have cybercrime units that can launch an investigation to identify the perpetrator. However, local police departments have limited jurisdiction, and they can only pursue identifiable criminals.

Because of this, you should also report the crime to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 is the national reporting center for cybercrimes, and agents refer to the IC3 to identify cybercrimes to investigate. The FBI has federal jurisdiction and even has connections to international law enforcement in other countries. You can report to the IC3 by visiting your local field office or going to their website.

Private Cybersecurity Firms

Law enforcement departments are largely driven to pursue criminals and bring them to justice. While this is helpful with online blackmailers, private cybersecurity firms will focus on protecting the victim’s privacy and putting an end to the blackmail. These experts use specialized forensics techniques to trace the perpetrator’s virtual footprint, revealing their geolocation and identity.

They use this information to apply strategic pressure onto the blackmailer to abandon their scheme and leave the victim alone. These firms also typically respond quickly to blackmail reports and will actively monitor the internet for any nonconsensual publishing of your sensitive data. However, keep in mind that working with cybersecurity firms often comes at a cost.

Nonprofits

There are many nonprofit organizations that combat cybercrime and specific forms of online blackmail. Many of them provide emotional support to victims and operate 24/7 helplines. Some organizations specifically fight against sextortion or image-based sexual abuse. Here are a few nonprofits to look into when facing blackmail.

Fightcybercrime.org. A nonprofit that provides educational resources for those affected by cybercrime. The organization works within law enforcement and consumer protection ecosystems.

Cyber Civil Rights Initiative. The CCRI helps victims of nonconsensual intimate image abuse, including sextortion. They offer resources to find blackmail lawyers and 24/7 support for victims.

National Cybersecurity Alliance. A nonprofit that works with companies and organizations to make cybersecurity more accessible. For example, the National Cybersecurity Alliance partners with Target, FBI, and Microsoft.

A Blackmail Lawyer

Similar to law enforcement, attorneys are only effective against identifiable perpetrators. They can help you file a restraining order, a cease-and-desist letter for online platforms hosting the sensitive content, or even a lawsuit. However, legal professionals can carry a significant price to work with. Many of them charge by the hour.

Working with Law Enforcement to Catch a Blackmailer

Between May 12 and 15, 2025, three women reported to police that they had been targeted by sextortion attempts involving threatening messages from an unidentified sender. One of the women was sent an explicit image that she recognized as a photo she previously sent to a man named Mikel Reyes. She confronted Reyes about it, but he denied any involvement.

A detective noticed that the messages were all sent from the same account using a text message service. He was able to get a search warrant, and the IP address linked to the account traced back to Reyes’s mother. The detective then got another warrant to seize Reyes’ devices. The police were able to uncover even more evidence that directly suggested that he was responsible for the sextortion attempts. As a result, Reyes was charged with multiple offenses, including three counts of first-degree larceny by extortion.

How To Protect Yourself During Blackmail

Understanding how to find and work with a blackmail expert is always important. However, you don’t have to wait for an expert to take action. There are immediate rules you should follow to reduce your risk of exposure.

For one, never give in to a blackmailer’s demands. This often escalates the situation and signals that you’re susceptible to intimidating messages. You also should immediately preserve the evidence of the blackmail. Take screenshots of messages and any other relevant evidence of the crime.

These initial actions will not only give you more control over the situation, but they will also help experts assist you. Blackmailers move fast, and it’s these quick but informed decisions that can make all the difference.

Cyber Investigation Inc. is a trusted cybersecurity firm that specializes in protecting blackmail victims. We have years of experience fighting against cybercriminals and will work tirelessly to put an end to the blackmail. If you want to work with experts, contact us today.

Last Updated on July 18, 2025

Being blackmailed is not something anyone wants to experience. Online blackmail is a particular issue because of its widespread reach and the anonymity it offers its perpetrators. This has led to a growing epidemic of online blackmail that has put every user at risk. It’s more important than ever to understand what to do if you’re being extorted and how to reduce your risk of being targeted.

What Should I Do If Someone Is Blackmailing Me Online?

Having your private information weaponized against you is unsettling and terrifying. However, thousands of people deal with being blackmailed every year. According to the 2024 IC3 report, the FBI received over 86,000 extortion-related complaints, which included reports of online blackmail. When someone blackmails you, your response is an incredibly important factor in how the situation will end. If you are being blackmailed, follow these steps to protect yourself.

Don’t Panic

Blackmailers want you to panic and make rash decisions without thinking. That’s why they will use aggressive language and send a barrage of hostile messages to the victim. They will also use urgency in the form of short deadlines. All these tactics are meant to make the situation feel so overwhelming that the victim sees compliance as the only solution. However, you should avoid panicking and respond to being blackmailed carefully.

Gather Evidence

Users can edit or delete messages on online platforms. As such, it’s important to preserve the blackmail evidence so you can trigger an investigation into the perpetrator. Make sure to take screenshots of messages and other relevant evidence of being blackmailed.

Never Comply when Being Blackmailed

You may feel pressured to comply with the criminal’s demands, but doing so is an ineffective way to end the blackmail. Giving in to the blackmailer signals that you are susceptible to their tactics. This can escalate the situation and embolden the perpetrator to demand more. Once the blackmail starts, it’s best to immediately stop communicating with the perpetrator.

Report the Incident to Platform Administrators

Digital blackmail typically occurs on online platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Blackmailers will create fake online profiles, posing as legitimate entities or trusted individuals. Then, they will message and trick potential victims into giving the blackmailer access to their sensitive information.

Online platforms have implemented tools to combat online blackmail, including a reporting system and AI detectors for fake accounts. Reporting the blackmailer’s profile and messages to the platform administrators can result in their account being removed.

Notify the Authorities

Victims of online blackmail should always report the incident to the authorities. Your local law enforcement can help you file a police report and officially record the crime for potential use in future legal actions. They may also have a special cybercrime division that can launch an investigation into the crime. However, the authority of police is restricted to local jurisdictions.

If the blackmailer is across state lines or out of the country, you will need to report the crime to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 is the national reporting center for cybercrime. It tracks cybercrime trends across the country and FBI agents can refer to the IC3 to identify cases to investigate. You can report to the IC3 at your local field office or by visiting their website.

Secure your Account

Blackmailers will exploit any compromising information they have about you, either by gaining access to your devices or by tricking you into sending it directly to them. However, there are ways you can secure your account, reducing the risk of future blackmail attempts. Here are a few ways to secure your account:

• Change your password. Your passwords should be strong and unique to each account. Make sure they are at least 12 characters long, mixing letters, numbers, and special characters.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA). 2FA is a security setting that verifies every log in to your account by sending you an email or text message. It can protect your account in case your password is exposed. Check Have I Been Pwned to see if your password or emails have been publicly compromised in a data breach.
• Verify account recovery information. If you are out of your account, you can use a secondary email address to regain access. However, you need to make sure all your account recovery information is up to date.
• Update privacy settings. Blackmailers will often use the information about you that is available online to create a sophisticated trap. Not only can stricter privacy settings on social media restrict who can contact you, but it can also limit who can view your account.

Emotional and Legal Support for Those Being Blackmailed

Being blackmailed can trigger intense emotions like anxiety, stress, and even PTSD. It’s important to seek out emotional support as a victim to help you through this experience. Fortunately, there are resources that can help victims of blackmail deal with the emotional toll of the experience. The following are organizations to take note of:

• Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (CCRI). The CCRI offers support for victims of image-based sexual abuse. They have a 24/7 helpline for emotional support, legal resources, and educational resources.
• National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). This non-profit supports exploited children in many ways. They have a Cybertipline for people to report particular forms of blackmail and any NCII abuse against minors. The NCMEC also has a call center available 24/7.
• Trusted friend, family member, or counselor. Talking with someone you trust about what you are going through can help alleviate the stress of the situation. Having a trusted confidant can make the process of dealing with online blackmail more manageable.

Someone is Trying to Blackmail Me. Can a Cybersecurity Firm Help?

Private cybersecurity firms have the expertise and state-of-the-art technology to help victims of online blackmail. Every online interaction leaves data behind, and these experts can use digital forensics to follow the trail. By tracing the online footprint of the perpetrator, cybersecurity professionals can unmask their geolocation and identity.

On top of identifying the perpetrator, private cybersecurity firms can also scan the internet for any unauthorized sharing of your private information and work to mitigate the damage of the exposure. These experts can also take on your case without delay, immediately catering to your needs.

If you are being blackmailed and need professional help, contact Cyber Investigation Inc. We are a cybersecurity firm that specializes in supporting blackmail victims and in taking the fight to the criminal responsible. Report your blackmail case to one of our experts today!