What is sextortion?
Sextortion is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share private or intimate photos or videos unless you pay money or provide more content. It often begins as harmless flirting — and turns into emotional blackmail.
Here’s how to take back control.
🚨 Step-by-Step Survival Plan:
1. Stop responding.
The blackmailer thrives on your fear. Block them. Do not explain. Do not beg. Silence is your power.
2. Do NOT pay them.
Paying once only leads to more demands. They may promise to delete the content — they won’t.
3. Screenshot everything.
Messages, threats, usernames, profiles, photos. Document the entire conversation as evidence.
4. Report the profile/platform.
Use the in-app report tools (Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, etc). Most platforms remove reported sextortion accounts quickly.
5. Tell someone you trust.
Shame thrives in silence. Talk to a friend or someone close — they can help you stay calm and act clearly.
6. Tighten your privacy settings.
Change passwords, hide your followers list, set profiles to private. Make it harder for scammers to reach you or your contacts.
7. Report to local authorities or a cybercrime unit.
Many countries have cybercrime reporting tools. If you’re in Estonia, use https://cyber.politsei.ee
💬 What If They Really Send My Photos?
It’s terrifying, yes — but rare. In most cases, they don’t follow through. Their goal is quick money, not drama. Once you stop responding and report them, they move on.
🔐 You Are Not Alone
Thousands go through this every month. You are not stupid, not dirty, not broken. You’re human. You trusted — and someone abused that.
But now…
You’re taking back your power.