Instagram is undoubtedly one of the world’s leading social media platforms, boasting over 1 billion monthly active users globally. While its massive popularity allows for vast interactions, there is a serious downside: the platform presents opportunities for scammers and extortionists. Keep reading to find out all you need to know about how to report extortion on Instagram and the steps you can take to get help.
Do Instagram Sextortionists Follow Through?
Online sextortion is a form of blackmail in which an individual is threatened with releasing intimate photos or videos, often obtained through sexting or other methods. With the crimes like Instagram sextortion becoming all too common, it begs the question of, do these criminals ever follow through.
In many cases, the scammer’s goal is to get money from the victim in exchange for not releasing the material. The truth is that it varies. Some scammers are looking for a quick payoff and will move on if they do not get what they want. Others may have the material in question and be willing to release it regardless of the outcome, whether you pay them or not. Thus, causing a vicious cycle that can feel never-ending. Regardless, it is vital to take every threat seriously and report it.
Can Instagram Help with Sextortion?
Instagram has an extensive list of rules and guidelines that users must follow. This includes policies against bullying, harassment, and sexual exploitation. If you are being extorted on Instagram, you can report the user and their behavior to the platform. Instagram takes these reports seriously and will investigate them. They may also disable accounts that violate their policies.
However, it is important to note that Instagram is not a law enforcement agency and may be unable to take legal action against the scammer. Also, because these types of crimes are done on such a massive scale, Instagram receives hundreds of thousands of these types of reports they have to filter through, often causing it to take a few days for them to investigate the information and act against them.
How to Stop Extortion on Instagram?
When you find yourself the victim of extortion, it can feel overwhelming and confusing to know what to do next. Ending the vicious cycle of extortion can feel relentless, but fear not; there is hope for my fellow readers.
Tips:
1. Record all the evidence of the crime, including screenshots of the threats, posts, and even their Instagram profile. Having this evidence on hand will help law enforcement and other authorities build a case against your extorter and bring them to justice.
2. Additionally, you should refrain from engaging with the extorter or sending them any money. Doing so only encourages them to continue their behavior and puts you at risk for further exploitation.
3. Next, you are going to want to report the crime. Start by contacting local law enforcement and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. Be prepared to provide them with all the evidence
you have collected, as well as any other information they may need to investigate and prosecute your extorter.
4. Consider consulting an attorney or third part company that deals with these types of online cyber-crimes. They can provide you with valuable guidance and support throughout the process.
5. Seek out help; try talking to friends and family members about what is going on. Remember that extortion is a global problem, and you are not alone. There are support groups and organizations that can provide you with much-needed emotional support and encouragement as you work through this difficult situation.
Conclusion:
Knowing the proper steps for reporting extortion on Instagram is imperative. By reporting the behavior to Instagram and taking measures to protect yourself, you can minimize its impact and prevent it from recurring. Always think twice before sharing sensitive material online or with strangers, and keep your social media content private to avoid unwanted attention. Stay safe and secure on Instagram!
If you need additional help on how to report extortion on Instagram, reach out to Cyber Investigation today. Our team of dedicated agents can handle your case discreetly and quickly. With our 24/7 sextortion helpline, you can get the help you need.
