Sextortion
Sextortion is blackmail involving threats to share intimate images or videos unless someone provides money, more content, or sexual acts. It can affect people of any age.
Threats can take different forms
They may come from someone you know, a former partner, or a person using a fake profile.
Money in exchange for silence
They demand payment to stop them from sending the content to your family, friends, or contacts.
More images or sexual demands
They use content they already have to demand more images, a video call, or sexual acts.
Pressure to act immediately
They set deadlines, repeatedly contact you, or threaten to approach people close to you so you have little time to seek help.
What you can do now
Do not pay or send more
Complying does not guarantee the blackmail will stop. Ask someone you trust to support you. If you are under 18, reach out to an adult.
Keep the details and stop contact
Keep threats, usernames, and links without copying sexual images of anyone under 18. Report and block the account; do not delete messages that could help with a report.
Explore your options for help
Contact local authorities. If there is an intimate image of you, check removal options based on your age when it was taken.
Sources and further reading
Content reviewed on October 4, 2026. Sources may describe services or laws specific to one country.