Last Updated on September 5, 2025

There is a long-held, erroneous belief that the solution to cyber harassment is as simple as turning off your device. After all, their abuse can only reach you if you look at your screen, right? Sadly, with cases of online blackmail, it’s not this simple. Do blackmailers give up if you ignore them? Unfortunately, the answer is almost always no.

Blackmailers don’t give up so easily. Instead, they escalate their attack, waging a barrage of threats that intensify to the point of potentially following through. Your reputation, emotional health, and financial stability are all placed in jeopardy, and you need to take action to protect yourself.

Ignoring the blackmailer isn’t a viable defense. Rather, you need to take strategic action to protect yourself. This is where seeking professional assistance can be a huge benefit.

What Happens When You Ignore a Blackmailer?

Unfortunately, ‘out of sight, out of mind’ does not apply to online blackmail. Not only will the uncertainty of your situation eat away at you, but it may expediate the release of your data that you desperately wish to avoid. Rather than getting them to give up, ignoring a blackmailer can bring negative ramifications that include the following:

Escalation of Threats

Instead of backing off, blackmailers often intensify their efforts to sway their target into compliance. This is often done by ramping up the aggression of threats, issuing deadlines, heightening demands, and employing pressure tactics to get the target to believe they will follow through and make a hasty decision.

Risk of Exposure or Data Release

If threatening messages don’t get their targets attention, blackmailers may go as far as to follow through on some of their prepositions. To prove they mean what they say, blackmailers might release a portion of your data or contact your friends and family. They likely won’t dump the entire database from the get-go, but any leaked content is too much to ignore.

Targeting You Again Later

Whether you avoid them or not, the issue still persists of them having access to your private information. At any point in the future, they could reach out to you again and restart their reign of terror. They could even sell your data to other cybercriminal operations, opening you to an exponential threat of repeat victimhood.

Why Blackmailers Don’t Just Walk Away

Blackmailers, like the majority of cybercriminals, are looking to profit from their schemes. They will employ every tool in their bag to try to get a victim to comply before moving onto the next. Also, they are willing to play the waiting game. Online blackmail is an issue you need to combat because it won’t go away on its own.

They Rely on Fear and Control

Blackmail is a psychological game. They expect and need their victims to panic or hide. It is under this cloud of uncertainty that victims may meet the demands of their blackmailer in fear that they may follow through with their threats. The longer you wait to take action against them, the larger this fear will grow.

Silence Signals Opportunity, Not Resistance

Ignoring them can be seen as hesitation, prompting further attempts to scare you into compliance. This may accumulate to them eventually going through with some or all of their threats to raise the stakes of their proposal. These people are criminals, and there is nothing they aren’t willing to throw at you to collect their payload.

They Often Target Multiple Victims

Professional blackmailers cycle through victims, but they won’t simply drop their attack without action. Depending on how much information they have on you, blackmailers may leak your data or sell it to other cybercriminals online. Ignoring this issue can actually proliferate the blackmail instead of stopping it.

What You Should Do Instead of Ignoring a Blackmailer

If ignoring them doesn’t work, how can you get a blackmailer to give up? Luckily, there is a path you can choose that yields a much higher chance at successfully keeping your private data from the public. You don’t need to wait for them to follow through; you should take action against your blackmailer immediately.

Do Not Engage, But Do Not Stay Passive

While it isn’t advisable to outright ignore the blackmailer, you should cease all communication once you’ve obtained evidence. This may seem confusing at first, but the difference between ignoring and cutting off a blackmailer is having a proper exit plan.

This is where delay tactics can be of use. Before you can confront a blackmailer, you will need time to collect evidence, find help, and simply collect your thoughts. To buy yourself this time, use believable excuses to postpone paying the blackmailer like needing to wait until payday or time to sell items to come up with the funds.

Preserve All Evidence

With a plan in place and delay tactics buying you more time, you can begin collecting evidence. Online blackmail is a crime, and you have every right to take legal action against your assailant. But to do this, you will need to be able to prove what happened.

You will want to capture any and everything that displays the unlawful nature of your conversation. Names, accounts, phone numbers, emails, and any exchanges between you that express threatening intentions should be documented. You will want to conduct a thorough investigation, which is why delaying the blackmailer is so important.

Report the Threat

It’s now time to put that evidence to use. You should begin by filing a report with your local police force. If the crime permeates past the scope of their jurisdiction, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) is the national task force responsible for handling cybercrimes.

You should also report the online accounts of the blackmailer to any platforms they contacted you on. This can result in their profiles being removed, along with any of your private data they may have posted. Reporting to platforms also helps protect you and others from being harmed in the future.

Contact Cyber Investigation Inc. Immediately

If you need help at any point in the process, the professionals at Cyber Investigation Inc. can assist you with any aspect of your recovery. Our team has the experience and resources required to stop your blackmailer.

How Cyber Investigation Inc. Stops Blackmailers

At Cyber Investigation Inc., we’ve handled cases spanning all kinds of blackmail. We have successfully helped thousands of victims who have had their nudes, medical history, criminal record, financial data, and other personal information leveraged against them. We can help protect your private data from the public or locate and remove it from the internet if your blackmailer has already followed through.

Some of the ways we can help you stop your blackmailer include:

• Identifying Anonymous Threats: With access to cutting-edge techniques and technology, our team can use digital forensics to uncover IP addresses, device fingerprints, and account origins to identify the cybercriminal.
• Preventing the Release of Sensitive Content: We can employ proactive content takedown services in cases where content is posted, such as nude blackmail. Furthermore, we can provide ongoing monitoring for exposure attempts.
• Supporting Legal Action and Protection: Our in-house legal counsel and collaboration with law enforcement across the globe can help you deter further contact, build a strong case, and take legal action against your blackmailer.
• Ensuring Long-Term Safety: Our services aren’t limited to resolving your case. We can continue to aid your online security by performing continuous monitoring to ensure blackmailers don’t return or resell your data.

The Risks of Waiting: Real Stories of Blackmail Escalation

Below are some testimonials from anonymous clients that we’ve been able to help navigate the same perils you are currently facing. Their blackmailers forced them into a corner where they felt like they had nowhere to turn, but Cyber Investigation Inc. was able to lead them to the path of recovery.

“I cannot put into words how professional these people are,” said one former client. “To not be able to eat or sleep with worry, it was a relief to be guided step by step and have a professional team to take over the nightmare I was living.”

“I am glad I found Cyber Investigation Inc. I could not sleep the night before,” another customer described the feelings that resulted from handling the blackmail alone. “When my case manager called me back, she took over everything and put me at ease.”

Don’t Ignore Blackmail, Fight Back the Right Way

Unfortunately, a blackmailer is not guaranteed to give up if you ignore their threats. Your lack of engagement may actually drive them to follow through on their ultimatum. Therefore, action rather than avoidance is the safest path forward.

You need to act quickly, but addressing the issue incorrectly can be just as detrimental as ignoring it. That’s why it can be of the upmost benefit to have the right professional team in your corner who can help you navigate this stressful situation.

If you’re being blackmailed, don’t just hope it goes away or wait for the blackmailer to follow through; make it stop now. Contact Cyber Investigation Inc. today to take control before it’s too late.

Last Updated on September 5, 2025

According to a Gen Threat study, the risk of being targeted by a financial scam on Facebook increased by over 300% in the second quarter of 2025. Millions of daily active users on Facebook typically let their guard down while using the platform, making them more vulnerable to blackmailers and scammers. Many people ask, “can you get blackmailed on Facebook?” The answer is yes, and it’s important to know how to protect yourself. If you use Facebook, it’s important to understand how to stop blackmail of sextortion on Facebook before scammers can target you. Keep reading to learn about how to deal with Facebook blackmail if it ever happens to you.

How to Deal with Facebook Blackmail Immediately

Once a blackmail threat has been made against you, your response needs to be strategic and decisive. One common type of online blackmail is Sextortion, which occurs when someone threatens to share intimate images or videos of you unless you pay money or comply with their demands. Sextortion is essentially a specific form of blackmail, and understanding this can help you respond more effectively.

1. Save the evidence.The first step you should take is to preserve all the evidence. Messages on Facebook can be deleted and profiles can be changed. It’s essential to save all evidence of blackmail or sextortion immediately after receiving it. You can take screenshots of messages and anything else that is relevant.
2. Do not give in to the demands. You should never consider complying with a blackmailer’s or sextortionist’s demands. Instead of stopping the threats and attacks, it encourages the criminal to continue the blackmail even more aggressively.
3. Report the scam on Facebook. Victims of Facebook blackmail and sextortion have a tool that allows them to fight back. You can notify the platform administrators of the scammer’s profile, messages, posts, and even comments. This could lead to the profile being removed from the platform. However, it doesn’t stop the scammer from making another account.
4. Notify the authorities. Local law enforcement can assist you with filing an official complaint, which can be used to support future legal action. Next, you should notify the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 processes and forwards each case to the appropriate agencies across the country, including cases involving sextortion.
5. Secure your accounts. It’s vital to strengthen the security on your accounts when you are being targeted by a cybercriminal. Start by making sure that no unauthorized users have gained access to your accounts. Next, update your passwords. Use a strong, unique password for each account you have. You should also enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
6. Turn to cybersecurity experts.Private cybersecurity firms can guide victims on how to deal with Facebook blackmail or sextortion.

What to Expect from Facebook Blackmailers

Blackmailers on Facebook are typically only interested in your money. They will use similar tactics to lure in potential victims and establish trust with victims. However, the more users are aware of Facebook blackmailers’ and sextortionists’ methods, the less effective their schemes will be. Fortunately, our analysts have compiled a list of common tactics used by blackmailers and sextortionists on Facebook. When it comes to how to deal with Facebook blackmail or sextortion, the first step is to take note of the following techniques.

Emotional Manipulation

Blackmailers and sextortionists are manipulative and use emotions to pressure victims into compliance. They will use constant threats to intensify the fear, shame, and distress from the situation. Short deadlines are also used to amplify the feelings of urgency and encourage rash decisions.

Fake Profiles and Impersonation

Cybercriminals use social engineering to trick victims into performing an action that reveals sensitive information. In many cases, blackmailers and sextortionists will use the likeness of attractive individuals to lure potential victims into a romantic relationship.

After gaining enough trust through constant engagement and affection, they will suggest sharing explicit images. The blackmailer or sextortionist will go first as an “act of good faith”. However, once the victim shares their explicit content, the blackmail or sextortion begins.

Blackmailers may also use fake profiles to trick victims into clicking malicious links. Posing as legitimate organizations, perpetrators send messages to you that include links filled with malware or that direct you to a malicious webpages. If you click the link, the criminal gains access to your device. The link can also direct you to a fake login page, designed to steal your credentials.

Steering the Conversation off the Platform

Facebook has strict policies against blackmail and sextortion and can often respond quickly to any complaints of the crime. The platform has also implemented machine learning technology to detect and remove profiles engaging in inappropriate behavior before a user notifies the administrators. Because of this, perpetrators will steer conversations onto private messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram. These platforms have less oversight and provide the criminal more freedom to conduct blackmail or sextortion.

Demands for Payment

When blackmailers or sextortionists demand money, they use methods of payment that are difficult to trace. It’s common for criminals to request money through cryptocurrency or gift cards. Cybercriminals are most concerned with maintaining their anonymity. This allows them to act without fear of repercussions.

How Law Enforcement Can Stop Blackmail on Facebook

The local authorities are a great resource for victims and can support efforts to stop blackmail or sextortion on Facebook. They can assist you in filing a complaint, documenting the crime, and creating a timeline of events. Some agencies will also investigate the perpetrator’s identity and location. However, police departments only have authority over local jurisdictions. If the cybercriminal is in another state or country, there is little they can do to stop blackmail or sextortion.

That is why you should also notify the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). The IC3 can track nationwide cybercrime trends and federal agents refer to the IC3 to launch new investigations. The FBI has jurisdiction over the country and even has connections to international law enforcement agencies.

The Role Private Cybersecurity Firms Can Play in Stopping Sextortion

Private cybersecurity firms have experts that specialize in digital forensics. They can trace the blackmailer’s digital footprint, uncovering their geolocation and, in some cases, their identity. This information can then be used as powerful leverage to stop blackmail on Facebook. Furthermore, firms can detect and remove instances of exposure over the internet to mitigate damage to your online reputation.

If you are a victim wondering how to deal with Facebook blackmail, reach out to our 24/7 Facebook blackmail helpline.  Our team of experts can protect your privacy and unmask your blackmailer’s identity. Call us today.

Last Updated on September 5, 2025

With a growing number of people relying on social media for communication, it’s no surprise that many turn to Snapchat. The platform allows users to easily share content and messages that disappear after a brief period. But one downside of this convenience is blackmail. Scammers and hackers use various tactics to exploit people’s personal information and extort money or favors. Snapchat’s disappearing messages may seem safe, but users are not immune to blackmailers. Keep reading for our experts’ advice on what to do if you get blackmailed on Snapchat.

How Do Users Get Blackmailed on Snapchat?

Snapchat has become a fan favorite among many online — including cybercriminals. They weaponize the platform’s impermanence to dispel their targets’ doubts. Afterall, it’s easier to convince someone to share private information if they believe the messages will disappear.

However, it’s very easy to inconspicuously record interactions on Snapchat. They could simply screenshot the content, but this will alert the sender. To work around this, criminals have developed third-party applications that can save messages without alerting the victim. More simply, the criminal could take a photo of the messages on another device.

Another feature that makes blackmail a staple on Snapchat is the ease of creating new accounts. The use of Bitmojis rather than profile pictures makes faking an identity that much easier. Furthermore, blackmailers can easily create new accounts to reach their victims if they’ve been blocked. This makes it difficult to get rid of blackmailers on Snapchat.

How to Deal with Being Blackmailed on Snapchat

The most important factor in responding after being blackmailed on Snapchat is time. You need to react quickly, but taking the wrong steps can make matters worse. It’s important to be prepared, so our experts have outlined the best path to stop blackmail on Snapchat.

Don’t Comply with the Blackmailer

If someone is blackmailing you on Snapchat, you may feel tempted to agree to their demands. This is especially true if they threaten to release compromising information or explicit photos. However, paying the extortionist will only make them ask for more. Furthermore, there’s no guarantee that they will keep their word and delete the content.

Paying the blackmailer also encourages them to continue their criminal activity and target more victims. Instead, you can stall their demands by pushing back the payment deadline using delay tactics. Give them excuses like, “I get paid in two weeks,” to buy time to reach out to experts for assistance.

Secure Your Snapchat Account

To avoid further harm, be cautious about who you accept as friends on Snapchat. Cybercriminals often create fake Snapchat accounts and use attractive photos to lure people into adding them. Once you’re on their friend list, they’ll use social engineering to coerce you into divulging personal information and money.

Collect Evidence of the Blackmail

You will need evidence to prove you were blackmailed on Snapchat and recreate an accurate timeline of the crime. Document anything relevant to the situation. You should record their username, Bitmoji, threatening messages, and timestamps. This will be critical as you move on to the next step and look to take legal action.

Notify the Proper Authorities

You should report the incident to Snapchat as soon as possible. Snapchat has a Safety Center where you can notify the administrator of the crime. The team will investigate the incident and take action against the offender.

In cases where the blackmailer has made serious threats or demands, contacting local law enforcement is vital. They can offer you legal advice and assistance in dealing with the offender. Always share the details of the offense and any evidence you might have, like screenshots or chat transcripts. Remember that online blackmail is a serious offense, and the authorities will take it seriously.

Seeking Further Support: Resources for Victims

Getting blackmailed on Snapchat is emotionally damaging and traumatic. Don’t hesitate to seek the support of people you trust. This can be a family member, friend, community member, or professional support specialist.

Dealing with the aftermath of Snapchat blackmail can be a daunting and stressful experience. Having someone who can listen to you and offer guidance can make a big difference. Moreover, sharing your story can raise awareness about the dangers of Snapchat blackmail and protect others from similar situations.

Do Blackmailers on Snapchat Follow Through?

Unfortunately, there is no concrete answer to this question. There is always a possibility that the blackmailer could make good on their threats. Factors like your social status and the way you initially respond can determine if they will follow through.

However, cybercriminals are unpredictable and can respond irrationally when they believe they are losing control. Because of this, it’s important that you heed the advice of our experts and follow the response plan above.

Safeguarding Your Privacy: Tips to Avoid Being Blackmailed on Snapchat

Although cybercriminals use Snapchat for malicious crimes, it doesn’t mean the platform can’t be fun and safe. Users can lower their risk of being blackmailed on Snapchat by learning how to securely use the platform. Here are some techniques our analysts suggest you incorporate while using the app.

• Set Strong Privacy Settings. Snapchat gives users several privacy settings to control who can see their snaps, stories, and location. You can limit who can interact with you by making your account private and changing your “Who Can…” setting. Also, you can disable the “Quick Add” feature to restrict Snapchat from recommending your account to others who aren’t your friends.
• Be Cautious About Adding Strangers. Regarding social media, you must be cautious about whom you add as friends. Avoid accepting requests from people you don’t know, especially if they have no mutual connections. This way, you can decrease the risk of strangers accessing your content.
• Don’t Share Sensitive Information. Snapchat is designed to share your daily moments. However, you should avoid sharing sensitive information like your home address, financial information, or personal contact information. It would be best if you protect yourself from potential scammers online.
• Use Two-Factor Authentication. Snapchat provides an extra layer of security by using two-factor authentication. If you enable it, you will receive a verification code on your device when you try to log in. This will prevent unauthorized access to your account.

How Working with Cybersecurity Experts can be Beneficial

The aftermath of being blackmailed on Snapchat is a lot to handle alone. Victims have to figure out how to stall for time, what evidence to collect, and who to notify. Not only is this a time-sensitive task, but also one that is completed under extreme duress.

However, victims don’t have to take on this burden alone. Cybersecurity professionals can investigate the situation and guide you to a successful recovery. These experts have experience, knowledge, and technology that allow them to recover evidence that wouldn’t be available alone.

They can use the metadata embedded within your Snapchat messages to derive the blackmailer’s location and identity. This opens the door to legal avenues that would require you to know who the criminal is, such as restraining orders.

Cybersecurity experts can continue to be of assistance, even after your case has concluded. They can evaluate your current security system for any vulnerabilities and suggest safe online practices. These services can protect you from getting blackmailed on Snapchat in the future.

At Cyber Investigation, our team of experts is ready to step in. You can contact our Blackmail Helpline any time of day to connect with one of our specialists. Don’t struggle alone, get the expert assistance you need today.

Last Updated on September 4, 2025

Sextortion 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 sextortion and blackmail schemes. This includes 5,700 Facebook groups in which scammers were offering advice on how to exploit other users. Sextortion with video on Facebook scams are a growing concern, and users need to know what to do if they are targeted.

Common Types of Sextortion and 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. Scammers 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 nude scam or sextortion attempt 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 nude 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.

Sextortion 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 sextortion.

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 or carry out sextortion 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 a sextortion or nude scam 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 Sextortion 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 September 3, 2025

Whether it happens on Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, or WhatsApp, being blackmailed with the public sharing of your intimate videos is terrifying. Sextortion is a fast-growing crime that’s affecting more and more people every year. In fact, according to FBI data, reported cases surged from 34,000 in 2023 to 54,000 in 2024, a staggering 30% increase in just one year.

This alarming rise shows just how widespread and persistent this threat has become. But there is help, and there are ways to fight back.

Timing is Critical: Why You Need to Act Fast

If you’re a victim of video blackmail, taking quick action is critical. The steps you take in the first few days can make all the difference in protecting your privacy and stopping the threat. Timing matters.

Acting swiftly can help prevent the public sharing of your intimate content and increase the chances of a successful resolution. Don’t wait or try to handle this alone. The sooner you respond, the more options you have to regain control.

• Do Not Pay: It might feel like the quickest way to make the problem go away, but paying a blackmailer only makes things worse. Sending money won’t guarantee your content stays private. In fact, it almost always leads to further demands. Once a criminal knows you’re willing to pay, they’ll continue to exploit you. The threats and harassment won’t stop — they’ll escalate.
• Do Not Engage: Avoid arguing, pleading, or trying to reason with the blackmailer. Any response can fuel their attack on you and increase the pressure. Silence is often your strongest defense.
• Do Not Block Them: It might seem like blocking the perpetrator is the safest move, but it can actually provoke retaliation. In many cases, blocking leads to them leaking your content out of anger or frustration.
• Stall for Time: Buy yourself some time to think with delay tactics. You can say you’re waiting for a paycheck or need more time to gather the money. Use this delay to your advantage. Every minute gives you a chance to get help.
• Contact Cybersecurity Experts: This is the most important step. While you stall for time, reach out to private cybersecurity firms. These experts use advanced tools such as IP tracing and digital forensics to identify the criminal, gather evidence, and work to put an end to the harassment. You don’t have to face this alone. With the right help, you can fight back.

Report the Video Blackmail

If someone is blackmailing you with a video on Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Snapchat, or WhatsApp, it’s crucial to report the crime to both the platform and law enforcement.

• Gather Evidence: First, document the threat. Take screenshots of the culprit’s profile, including their username, profile picture, and any messages or threats they’ve sent. You don’t need to save the explicit content itself — just the evidence of the communication and coercion. This information is key for both platform administrators and investigators.
• Report the Blackmail to the Platform: Each of the major platforms — Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and WhatsApp — have built-in tools for reporting harassment, impersonation, and sextortion, including video blackmail. Use these tools to report the account and include the evidence you’ve collected. Platform administrators will typically review your case, investigate the activity, and take appropriate action, which may include suspending or removing the blackmailer’s account.
• Contact Law Enforcement: File a report with your local police department and also with the FBI. You can report cybercrimes like sextortion through the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). Reporting to law enforcement not only helps protect you — it creates an official record that can be used to investigate, identify, and ultimately prosecute the offender.

Video Blackmail and the Platforms Where It Happens

The platform where video blackmail occurs can significantly affect how the crime unfolds and how it impacts you. Each platform has different privacy settings, reporting tools, and levels of visibility. Understanding the role of the platform is key to knowing what you’re up against and how to respond effectively.

The Facebook Messenger Video Chat Blackmail

Facebook Messenger is one of the most common platforms used in video blackmail cases, and for good reason. Its widespread use and built-in video chat features make it an easy target for cybercriminals. Sextortion on Facebook messenger video chats is typical because the chats are private. Crooks can bypass Facebook’s public content restrictions, luring victims into sharing intimate or compromising content.

What many victims don’t realize is that any video shared — even briefly — can be recorded, downloaded, and stored by the fraudster. That content can then be used as leverage in Facebook video chat blackmail schemes and even shared publicly on other online platforms.

Because of its familiarity and accessibility, Facebook Messenger often feels like a safe space. However, it’s also one of the top contributors for Facebook Messenger video blackmail. Understanding this risk is the first step in protecting yourself.

Instagram Blackmail

With its massive user base and its emphasis on content sharing, blackmail through videos has become a frequent occurrence on Instagram.

Crooks often operate through fake accounts, posing as attractive individuals and initiating flirty or suggestive conversations. They build trust by sending fake intimate content, encouraging the victim to reciprocate. These interactions may feel casual or even exciting at first, but they are carefully orchestrated traps.

Once the victim shares private images or videos, the tone shifts abruptly. The blackmailer begins making demands for money and issues a warning that they will share the content publicly if victims don’t comply. These cybercriminals use shame, fear, and manipulation to control their victims, often pressuring them into silence and compliance.

Recognizing the signs early and knowing how these schemes work is crucial to protecting yourself and taking back control.

WhatsApp and Snapchat: A False Sense of Security

The encrypted and “disappearing” features of WhatsApp and Snapchat make them appealing platforms for sextortion schemes. Victims are often lulled into a false sense of security, believing their intimate content is protected or temporary.

Some Snapchat blackmail video schemes rely on the platform’s design to only temporarily view snaps to lure the victim into sending explicit content. WhatsApp also offers a disappearing messages feature that makes photos and videos seem like they’re only briefly accessible. Criminals will similarly use this feature in WhatsApp video sextortion schemes to make victims feel safe.

Despite the platforms’ promises of privacy, criminals can easily bypass protections by taking screenshots or using screen-capturing software, saving a permanent copy of the content without the victim’s knowledge.

In fact, the perceived safety of these platforms is exactly what makes them vulnerable. Many fraudsters will intentionally steer conversations away from Facebook or Instagram and onto WhatsApp or Snapchat, knowing these apps have more lax moderation and fewer safeguards.

The hard truth is that neither platform is truly safe when it comes to sharing sensitive material. Awareness and caution are your best defenses.

Work With Experts to Protect Yourself from Video Blackmail

If someone is sextorting you with a video on Facebook Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Snapchat, don’t wait. Take action now. Cyber Investigation specializes in digital extortion cases, and our team of experts is here to help you take back control.

Using advanced investigative tools, we can trace the blackmailer’s identity, pinpoint their exact location — even down to the device model and IP address — and use this information to pressure them into stopping the harassment. In many cases, just knowing they’ve been identified is enough to make the criminals back off.

You don’t have to face this alone. Take the first step toward ending the blackmail and regain your peace of mind. Contact Cyber Investigation today.

Last Updated on September 2, 2025

Learning how to report blackmail on Snapchat is crucial for protecting yourself and preventing others from becoming victims of the same scheme. However, let’s be honest, waiting for the app administrators to respond can feel like an eternity. To make matters worse, reporting blackmail to Snapchat administrators often fails to resolve the underlying issue. While it helps prevent the blackmailer from targeting others, for victims, it only delays potential exposure. This article provides an updated list of steps for reporting blackmail on Snapchat and additional actions victims can take to protect themselves

Continue reading How to Report Blackmail On Snapchat: Protecting Your Online Presence

Last Updated on September 2, 2025

It’s normal for victims of blackmail to feel helpless in the face of ongoing threats. Not only is the intimidation demoralizing, but the perpetrator often hides behind anonymity for protection. A common misconception is that the only option is to ignore the abuse. However, the law provides avenues for victims to take action, depending on their circumstances. That said, you shouldn’t pursue legal action without consulting with a legal professional. Working with a blackmail attorney ensures that you understand your options fully and the best way to move forward.

What is a Blackmail Attorney?

The terms blackmail, extortion, or sextortion lawyer are used interchangeably to describe a legal professional who specializes in extortion or blackmail laws. They can advise you on the local and federal laws that may apply to your case. An extortion attorney can also advise you on the best legal steps to take for protection. If you decide to take action legally, you need a blackmail attorney to make sure it is successful.

Why You May Need a Blackmail Lawyer

The law is extremely complex, and it requires specialized education to understand it effectively. Blackmail, sextortion, and extortion have varying laws and legal definitions at the local level. A blackmail attorney can help decipher the laws that apply to your case and even bring your attacker to justice. Here are the reasons why you should consider working with an extortion lawyer.

Professional Assistance

With any legal action comes a process that requires many steps. A qualified blackmail attorney is aware of everything needed to pursue legal action. They can also navigate complex laws and advise you on preserving evidence in a way that’s legally admissible. Whether it’s supporting criminal prosecution or receiving financial compensation, extortion attorneys are incredibly valuable.

Civil Legal Process

Blackmail cases are often handled in criminal court. However, victims can also file a lawsuit for damages that resulted from the extortion. Victims commonly sue the perpetrator for emotional distress, defamation, and invasion of privacy. Victims can maintain full control over the civil legal process, filing, settling, or dropping the lawsuit at any time. They can also potentially receive financial compensation for experiencing the crime.

Burden of proof

It’s important to remember that civil legal action has a lower burden of proof. Victims may turn to civil litigation because criminal cases require evidence that is “beyond a reasonable doubt.” This means that the prosecution presents compelling evidence that convinces the jury of the defendant’s guilt. Conversely, civil court requires a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the evidence proves that the claim is likely true.

Based on these two concepts, civil litigation can be less intimidating to victims and have better odds of succeeding. However, only a blackmail lawyer can provide an informed opinion on what’s best for your situation.

DMCA Takedown Notices

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) is a federal law that expands copyright protections to cover the digital environment. With this statute, DMCA takedown notices could inform online service providers to remove infringing content. Many cases of sextortion involve victims sending explicit content that they took themselves which gives them copyright protection.

How a Sextortion Lawyer Uses DMCA Takedown Notices

A sextortion attorney can file a DMCA takedown notice to remove non-consensual intimate images or videos posted online. Online platforms like social media and adult websites often honor the DMCA.  A study from the University of Michigan found that NCII content on Twitter/X that was served a DMCA takedown notice was removed within 25 hours. In comparison, NCII content reported through the platform remained unaddressed for 3 weeks.

Cease and Desist Letters

A sextortion attorney uses cease-and-desist letters to warn perpetrators to stop their actions or else face legal consequences. This can be an effective tactic to pressure the criminal to stop the blackmail. However, it may also inform the blackmailer that you have the funds for a blackmail lawyer and encourage retaliation. Consulting a sextortion attorney is the best way to understand if a cease-and-desist letter is the right approach.

Criminal Prosecution

An extortion attorney is typically involved with civil litigation. However, they can also support blackmail victims through criminal investigations. These legal professionals can act as a liaison between the victim and law enforcement. A blackmail attorney will advocate for the victim’s interests and guide them through the process.

How to Choose a Qualified Extortion Lawyer

Not every extortion lawyer is the same. Some are more qualified than others. You will need a good blackmail lawyer in order to take legal action effectively. So, how do you know when an extortion attorney is qualified? We’ve compiled a list of factors to consider in your search.

• Relevant experience. A sextortion attorney should have relevant experience and specialized knowledge of laws regarding blackmail and extortion. They should be well-versed in cybercrime laws and how to help victims.
• Positive reputation. You can look for reviews from past clients for a sextortion attorney. These reviews can give you insight into the general reception of a professional’s services. You can typically find reviews or testimonials online.
• Strong professional standing. The blackmail lawyer should be licensed to practice law in your state. In some cases, you can look for the lawyer’s disciplinary record online.
• Clear communication. An extortion attorney needs to be responsive and have clear communication. A sextortion lawyer who has unusually long delays or fails to keep you informed is not completely reliable.
• Transparent billing practices. Hiring a sextortion lawyer can be expensive. However, how they charge can vary. Some charge by the hour and others charge a flat fee. Make sure the billing structure is clearly defined and communicated to you before signing on with a blackmail attorney.

How Anonymity Can Be an Obstacle for an Extortion Lawyer

Many blackmailers operate through the internet and hide behind anonymity. This can pose a challenge when it comes to taking legal action. Lawsuits and criminal prosecution generally require the defendant to be identified. Without knowing who or where the blackmailer is, it’s unclear what jurisdiction the case falls under.

Knowing the criminal’s identity is vital for taking legal action successfully. You can work with law enforcement to perform an investigation and help identify a cybercriminal. However, you can also work with cybersecurity experts at private firms.

Work with Cyber Investigation Inc. To Uncover Digital Evidence and Strengthen Your Case

Strong evidence is the cornerstone of any civil or criminal legal process, and that’s where Cyber Investigation Inc. can help. Our team is experienced in helping cybercrime victims uncover digital evidence to strengthen their cases.

We can trace digital data, unmasking the blackmailer’s identity and geolocation. Our in-house legal team can also provide counsel for the appropriate legal steps to take for your situation. If you are a victim looking for assistance, call our Blackmail Helpline to speak to one of our experts.

Last Updated on September 1, 2025

Tinder has become the face of online dating in the United States. A 2024 survey found that Tinder is the most recognizable dating app in the country with 73% brand awareness. Tinder is not only recognizable — it’s also the most downloaded dating app in the world. This all culminates in a perfect environment for scammers to scout their next victim. Keep reading to learn what to do if you fall victim to scams like blackmail on Tinder.

Common Scams on Tinder

The possibilities for a scammer are virtually endless on Tinder. By appealing to their target’s desire for love, scammers can innocuously launch the scheme of their choosing. The following are the Tinder scams our experts handle most frequently.

Blackmail on Tinder

It’s no surprise that blackmail on Tinder is a massive issue. Whether in person or online, dating lends the opportunity to ask personal questions. Afterall, you are looking to get to know a person that could potentially be your next partner. Knowing this, blackmailers will use this opportunity to gain leverage for their schemes.

Sextortion on Tinder

It’s not unusual for a conversation on Tinder to get spicy in short notice. It has earned a reputation as one of the best platforms to find hookups rather than long-term relationships. As such, many users join with the intent to get down to brass tacks quickly. Sextortionists also know this, and they use the platform to initiate intimate image exchanges.

Why are Tinder Scams So Prevalent?

As we’ve already covered, Tinder users are looking for love — or possibly just lust. This can blind their better judgement and lead them to go along with suspicious requests they normally wouldn’t. Furthermore, it’s incredibly easy to create a fake account on the platform. This can be done in a few different ways.

• Bot Accounts. These accounts are actually run by automated software that generates messages to a mass number of targets. They often send links to malicious websites that harvest credentials or contain malware.
• Catfish Profiles. These profiles steal or generalate images to create a fake persona. Scammers will often do their homework on their targets. They pull information from your online accounts to craft the illusion of your perfect match.
• The scammer may opt to steal another person’s identity rather than create a fake one. They will typically use attractive and wealthy people, such as celebrities.

To combat these fake accounts, Tinder rolled out a verification process in 2020. However, this is not mandatory to create an account, and scammers have found ways to circumvent the verification software.

What to Do If You Become a Victim on Tinder

Falling victim to any scam, especially from someone you thought you could trust, is a terrifying experience. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the onslaught of emotions you are experiencing. However, it’s important to remain calm and collected. You can get through this, and here’s how our experts suggest you proceed.

Immediate Steps to Take

It’s important to respond to scams like blackmail on Tinder immediately. Time is of the essence, but the wrong decisions can escalate the situation. Our analysts recommend the following steps in the immediate aftermath.

• Secure Your Account. The scammer may not have compromised your Tinder account, but it’s best to be proactive. Update your passwords on any accounts that could link back to your Tinder profile.
• Document Evidence. This includes the scammer’s Tinder profile, any messages exchanged between you, and timestamps of the incident. You will need this to recreate a timeline of the scam.
• Buy Yourself Time. Many people initially believe they should block the scammer. However, this often leads to retaliation in cases of blackmail and sextortion on Tinder. Instead, maintain communication using delay tactics while you get professional help.

Reporting the Scam to the Proper Authorities

You should report scams on Tinder to the platform’s system administrator. To report a user on Tinder, you’ll need to do the following.

1. Open the profile or chat that you wish to report.
2. Select the three dots (…) in the top right corner.
3. Select the “Report” option.

Additionally, it’s important to notify law enforcement. Begin with your local police. You can file a report by going into the station, and many precincts accept reports online or over the phone. If they don’t have jurisdiction to pursue the case, you should move forward to a national agency.

The FBI is responsible for handling reports of cybercrimes in the United States. You can learn more about reporting to the FBI in our article covering the Internet Crime Complaint Center. However, in cases of sextortion on Tinder, you should report to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children if the victim was under the age of 18.

Working with Professional Cyber Investigators

The process we’ve outlined above may seem complex, and victims are under enough pressure as it is. That’s why it can be extremely beneficial to seek the assistance of digital forensics and cybersecurity experts.

These professionals can help you collect evidence that wouldn’t be recoverable alone. This includes metadata embedded within the code of your interaction that can lead to the perpetrator’s identity and location.

Not only can they support your report and subsequent legal action, but they can also help secure your network. They can determine the scope of the attack and provide safe practices and security measures for the future.

Staying Safe: Avoiding Tinder Scams in the Future

Regardless of if you’ve been scammed on Tinder in the past, it’s important to be proactive about your safety. What you’ve read so far may make you hesitant to use the platform, but it’s possible to have a secure experience. Consider the following suggestions to avoid scams like blackmail on Tinder.

• Be Skeptical. Approach each interaction on Tinder with a healthy level of skepticism. Reverse-image search the images on their profile and ask them specific questions that are difficult to fake answers to.
• Avoid Oversharing. A new online romance can be exciting and make you want to throw caution to the wind. However, you shouldn’t disclose personal information. Sexting may be exhilarating, but sending intimate photos can open the door to sextortion on Tinder.
• Don’t Link External Accounts. It may seem innocent to connect with your new match on social media and other platforms. Unfortunately, scammers often use this as a means to gain intel on their target. It’s best to keep your online accounts separate. You should even consider using an independent email address for your Tinder account.
• Trust Your Gut. In some cases, it’s difficult to pinpoint what exactly seems peculiar about an interaction on Tinder. But if something feels off, you shouldn’t ignore it. It’s safer to move on from the interaction and avoid a potential scammer.

And if you ever need help dealing with a scam on Tinder, Cyber Investigation is here to help. You can contact our Dating Scams Helpline 24/7 to connect with one of our specialists and plan your next step.

Last Updated on August 26, 2025

How to Deal with Blackmail

Everyone has the right to their privacy. It allows us to have autonomy over our lives, relationships, and reputations in different circles. Blackmailers are particularly dangerous because they look to violate and weaponize that privacy for personal gain. Not only can the threat of blackmail cause severe emotional distress, but it can also disrupt quality of life. Protecting yourself from online blackmail primarily starts with understanding how these scams work. Continue reading to learn how to deal with blackmail and protect yourself from being targeted.

In-Person vs Online Blackmail

Blackmail is a crime in which someone threatens to publicly expose information to coerce victims into complying with their demands. There are two main categories for blackmail: in-person and online.

In-person blackmail typically involves physical leverage and interactions. Things like photographs, letters, and bank statements are used as leverage to blackmail people for money. In-person blackmailers are not typically anonymous. They are often committed by perpetrators who know the victim or previously had a relationship with them.

On the other hand, online blackmailers are often anonymous. They use digital means to gain access to private data and threaten to publicly release it online if their demands aren’t met. Things like social media accounts, explicit messages, and hacked devices are commonly used for online blackmail.

Different Types of Online Blackmail

There are various types of online blackmail, and the number of forms continues to grow as technology advances. Different forms of blackmail are typically defined by the type of demands or leverage used against the victim. Take note of the following four main types of online blackmail that you need to be aware of.

Sextortion

Many people are looking for resources on how to deal with blackmail because of sextortion. Sextortion is a form of blackmail in which someone threatens to expose a victim’s explicit content unless their demands are met. The most common demand is for a certain amount of money, often requested through crypto or gift cards.

Sextortionists are known to use catfishing as their primary method of luring in potential victims. They will steal images from other online users who are deemed desirable. These catfish aim to build a fraudulent relationship with unsuspecting users, gaining trust and exploiting it. Sextortionists can also be previous partners who in the past had consensual access to the explicit content.

No matter the perpetrator, the effect on the victim is similar. They experience extreme fear, stress, anxiety, shame, or distress. The intense mix of emotions can be overwhelming for victims to handle alone and can lead to devastating consequences.

Sexploitation

Similarly, sexploitation is when someone threatens to release a victim’s explicit content unless their demands are met. However, the demands are specifically for more explicit content or sexual favors.

While sextortion is mainly financially motivated, sexploitation is not. This difference is also reflected in the type of criminal who commits each crime. Sextortionists are only interested in the victim’s money. Conversely, it’s common for sexploitation perpetrators to be attracted to their victims. In some cases, they may even stalk them.

Ransomware

Ransomware is malicious software that blocks access to systems, files, or data until a ransom is paid. If the demands are met, the perpetrator will send the victim a decryption tool to regain access to their assets. Ransomware is commonly used against organizations, but it can also be weaponized against individuals. 70% of reported cyberattacks in 2023 were ransomware, with more than 317 million attempts recorded.

Personal Information Blackmail

Certain cybercriminals will use any sensitive information they gain access to for blackmail. Login credentials, social security numbers, and credit card accounts are all examples of leverage in blackmail schemes. Hackers utilize phishing tactics to gain access to sensitive data. They will pose as trusted organizations or individuals and trick victims into clicking a malicious link. The link can either download malware onto your device or redirect you to a fake webpage designed to steal information. Once the perpetrators gain access to your data, they will look for compromising information for blackmail.

Account Takeover

With so much of our lives existing online, hackers now target online accounts for blackmail. Things like social media, email, and bank accounts are commonly used as leverage against victims. Similar to personal information blackmail, hackers use phishing tactics to gain access to accounts. Posing as legitimate organizations, they will send warning messages to victims that their account has been locked due to suspicious activity. However, the message is meant to lure victims into clicking on a malicious link, exposing their login credentials.

Common Threats Made in Online Blackmail

In the digital era, cybercriminals can commit blackmail with greater efficiency and scale. Blackmailers target dozens, if not hundreds, of people at a time. They rely on victims being unaware of their manipulative and coercive tactics. To help you better understand how to deal with blackmail, we compiled a list of threats you may encounter.

• Exposing intimate images or videos. Criminals will threaten to expose private explicit images or videos publicly.
• Sending intimate content to your supervisor or co-workers. Blackmailers will threaten to send intimate images or videos directly to your co-workers. They often use LinkedIn to discover professional contacts.
• Exposing social security numbers. They may threaten to release your social security number on the dark web, forums, or in data breach dumps.
• Deepfake nudes. Now, AI combined with deepfake technology can alter innocuous images or videos to manufacture explicit content. They may superimpose a victim’s face onto an already existing video or use undressing AI platforms to fabricate nudes.
• Law enforcement impersonation. Your local authorities will never blackmail you for money or request funds through the phone. In certain sextortion schemes, perpetrators will pose as young adults to lure victims into a relationship. Once trust is built, they will suggest exchanging intimate content. At this point, the perpetrator reveals that they are actually a minor and will get the “police” involved. Posing as an officer, the perpetrator will then contact the victim to scare them into paying the demanded amount.
• Account lockout and deletion. Once a hacker takes over an online account, they may only offer to return access after you’ve paid a ransom. They will threaten to lock you out of your account permanently or even delete your account if necessary.

How To Deal with Blackmail: Step by Step Guide

If you’re a victim of blackmail, it’s important to understand how to deal with blackmail — and how not to. Every step you take in response is an essential factor in how the scam will end. Follow these steps if you are wondering how to deal with blackmail.

• Keep a cool head. It’s natural to panic when facing blackmail. However, this is what blackmailers are counting on to force you into a rash decision-making process. Instead, stay calm and turn to the advice experts give on how to deal with blackmail.
• Save the evidence immediately. You need evidence of blackmail for experts to be able to perform their investigations. Make sure to immediately preserve the evidence and store it in a secure location. You can take screenshots of messages, ransom notes, emails, or even save infected files or data.
• Never give in to the demands. You should never comply with a perpetrator’s demands. It is ineffective in putting an end to the blackmail and only encourages the criminal to continue making demands.
• Avoid blocking the perpetrator. Blocking the blackmailer is a common approach. However, it can have devastating repercussions. Cutting off communications often pushes the perpetrator to make good on their threat in retaliation. You also won’t be able to monitor their actions or any threats they continue to make.
• Use delay tactics. While you shouldn’t block the perpetrator, you should keep the line of communication open. If blackmailers use short deadlines to apply pressure on you, use delay tactics to buy time. Delay tactics give you a chance to turn to law enforcement or cybersecurity experts for help. Use excuses such as “I need to wait until my next payday,” or “I have to pull the money together.”
• Report to the authorities. Victims of blackmail should always turn to law enforcement for assistance. They can help you file a report, officially documenting the crime. Certain agencies also have cybercrime units that can investigate your blackmailer. However, law enforcement agencies manage high caseloads, which can lead to delays when looking for help.
• Work with cybersecurity experts. When it comes to how to deal with blackmail, private cybersecurity firms can offer immediate assistance to blackmail victims. These firms have experts who can trace the online footprint of your blackmailer, revealing their geolocation and identity. They can also monitor the internet to take down any non-consensual posting of your private data.

Our Helpline

If you need help from a cybersecurity firm, contact Cyber Investigation Inc. We have dedicated cybercrime specialists on standby 24/7 to help victims. Reach out to our Blackmail Helpline today to speak to one of our specialists.

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.