How This Scam Works
1
Predator creates a fake profile posing as an attractive teen and contacts the victim on social media or gaming platforms.
2
They build trust through friendly conversation and gradually steer the topic toward intimate content.
3
They trick or pressure the victim into sharing intimate images, sometimes by sending fake images first.
4
The predator threatens to share the images with the victim's family, friends, and school unless they pay money.
5
Even after payment, demands continue. Some predators request more images or higher payments.
Warning Signs
New online friend who quickly becomes flirtatious
Pressures you to share personal or intimate photos
Claims to be a teenager but asks unusual questions
Wants to move conversations to private or encrypted apps
Threatens to share images unless you pay money
Real Examples
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How to Protect Yourself
Never share intimate images with anyone online, even someone you trust
Know that scammers often pretend to be teens to build false trust
If threatened, do not pay — paying often leads to more demands
Screenshot all threats and report to NCMEC at CyberTipline.org
Tell a trusted adult immediately — you will not be in trouble
Report to the FBI at ic3.gov and to the platform where contact occurred
Know that you can report to the Take It Down service at takeitdown.ncmec.org
Frequently Asked Questions
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Help Protect Others
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