Last Updated on July 7, 2023
Sextortion is a devastating form of online harassment that can leave victims feeling vulnerable, powerless, and ashamed. It involves exploiting sexual images or videos to blackmail victims with threats of exposure or harm to themselves or loved ones. The psychological and emotional trauma of such an experience can take a toll on victims, leading them to wonder if their tormentors will ever let them be. In this blog post, we explore Do Sextortionists Follow Through On Their Threats – and provide some tips on dealing with such situations.
Do sextortionists give up?
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to whether sextortionists give up. Some perpetrators will stop once they achieve their objective or decide the risk of exposure is too high, while others may persist in their harassment for months or even years. This is why taking immediate action is crucial when you become aware of sextortion attempts. Here are some steps you can take when you don’t know what to do if you are being sextorted online:
1. Block and report the perpetrator:
If the sextortion attempts are coming from someone you know, block them on all your social media platforms, email, and phone. Report them to the relevant authority or platform if possible. If it’s someone you don’t know, don’t engage with them. It’s critical to avoid reaching out for help and report sextortion as soon as it happens.
2. Seek emotional support:
Sextortion can cause immense emotional distress, and finding someone you trust to talk to is crucial. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, support group, or sextortion helpline like the National Sexual Assault Hotline. Don’t feel ashamed or alone. Remember, it’s not your fault; you don’t have to face this alone.
3. Consider legal action:
If the perpetrator has committed a crime, such as distributing sexual images or videos without your consent or threatening you with physical harm, you may be able to pursue legal action. Contact a lawyer, law enforcement, or a victim advocate for advice and support.
4. Protect yourself:
If you’re worried about the safety of yourself or your loved ones, consider taking steps to protect yourself, such as changing your phone number, getting a restraining order, or even temporarily relocating. These measures may seem extreme, but they could be necessary to ensure your safety and peace of mind.
5. Practice self-care:
Sextortion can take a toll on your mental and physical health, and taking care of yourself during this difficult time is crucial. This could involve engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or creative hobbies. It could also involve seeking medical attention if needed.
How to stop sextortion
If you’re dealing with sextortion, don’t suffer in silence. It’s common for victims to feel embarrassed or ashamed and keep their harassment hidden. However, this only gives the blackmailer more power and encourages them to continue the abuse. The best way to put an end to the harassment is to involve authorities and experts in blackmail. Letting them take charge can help you successfully overcome this difficult situation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, online sextortion is a serious crime that can have long-lasting effects on victims. While there’s no easy answer to whether sextortionists give up, taking immediate action to protect yourself and seek support is crucial. Remember, you’re not alone, and there is help available. By taking proactive steps to protect yourself and your mental health, you can start the healing process and move towards a brighter future.
