Beware of Online Sextortion

Online sextortion occurs when a fraudster threatens to circulate your private and sensitive material online unless you provide images of a sexual nature, sexual favors, or money. The perpetrator may also threaten to

Beware of Online Sextortion

Online sextortion is a form of abuse where cybercriminals threaten to share your private and sensitive material unless you provide sexual images, favors, or money. They may also threaten to harm your friends or relatives using information obtained from your electronic devices if you don't comply.

Why Should We Be Concerned?

Victims of sextortion experience:

• Abuse and exploitation
• Harassment
• Blackmail
• Threats of public humiliation
• Mental distress

Modus Operandi

Fraudsters lure users into sharing intimate content through various methods:

• Messages for Video/Audio Chats: They post enticing messages.
• Fake Accounts/Profiles: They use fake profiles to gain trust.
• Ad Campaigns: Fraudulent pages and ads lure victims.

Victims are typically targeted when they:

• Pay for services and pose nude or in compromising positions during video calls.
• Accept friend requests from fake profiles and engage in intimate interactions.

The fraudsters record these interactions, then use the material to blackmail victims, leading to sextortion.

Channels Used for Sextortion

• Messaging apps
• Dating apps
• Social media platforms
• Porn sites

Warning Signs of Sextortion Attempts

• Repeated unsolicited messages/video calls from unknown numbers.
• Multiple friend requests from strangers.
• Requests for intimate pictures or video chats.
• Manipulating conversations towards intimate topics.
• Rushing to develop intimacy.

Warning Signs of Victimization

• Signs of fear, nervousness, anxiety, and depression.
• Isolating oneself and being very reactive and emotional.
• Feelings of desperation and frustration.
• Suicidal thoughts and self-harming behavior.

Safety Tips to Protect Yourself

1. Never Share Compromising Images: Do not share any compromising images, posts, or videos of yourself, regardless of who asks.
2. Internet Permanence: Remember, once shared, your content can remain online forever.
3. Avoid Unknown Friend Requests: Do not accept or send friend requests from unknown people.
4. Privacy Settings: Enable privacy and security features on your social media accounts and messaging apps.
5. Report Users: Use the "Report User" option on social media to report suspicious activity.
6. No Private Sharing: Do not share personal or private pictures publicly.
7. Device Security: Turn off electronic devices and webcams when not in use.
8. Strong Passwords: Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication for your accounts.
9. Alarm Signals: Be cautious if someone tries to rush intimacy online.
10. **

No Capturing Intimate Content: Never allow anyone to capture private parts or intimate activities. Such data can be misused later. 11. Avoid Unknown Contacts: Do not accept video calls or open attachments from unknown people.

1. Save Evidence: Keep screenshots and other evidence for future reference.
2. Seek Help: Reach out to trusted family and friends. You are not alone.
3. Report and File Complaints: File a complaint at your nearest cyber crime cell or online at cybercrime.gov.in.
4. Avoid Intimate Content on Phones: Avoid clicking intimate/nude/semi-nude photos/videos on your phone.
5. Don’t Hesitate to Act: Report to the police without shame or embarrassment.

Legal Provisions Against Sextortion

Sextortion is a punishable offense under various sections of Indian law:

• Section 354(D) IPC: Pertains to stalking.
• Sections 506 and 507 IPC: Cover criminal intimidation.
• Section 509 IPC: Addresses insulting the modesty of a woman.
• Section 384 IPC: Relates to extortion.
• Section 67 of the IT Act: Covers publishing or transmitting obscene material electronically.

Victims' Rights and Remedies:

• Section 108(1)(i)(a) of the CrPC: Allows victims to inform the magistrate, who can detain and bond the accused to prevent circulation of obscene material.
• Section 292 IPC: Criminalizes the distribution or threat to distribute compromising images.
• Section 354C IPC: Covers voyeurism, especially when an intimate picture is taken and shared without consent.