Authorities in Nottinghamshire are reiterating their warnings to young people and their parents following a reported case of sextortion involving a local teenager. The incident, which unfolded after the boy, a secondary school student, exchanged indecent images with an unknown individual on TikTok, highlights the growing threat of online scams targeting youth.
The victim, who remains unnamed, was initially contacted through TikTok and sent an indecent image of himself. In return, he received explicit images from the scammer, who later threatened to share the boy’s photo unless he paid $100. After being contacted through multiple platforms, including WhatsApp and Snapchat, the teenager decided to report the incident to the police. Officers visited his home and provided advice to both him and his mother on how to navigate online safety.
Sextortion is a form of blackmail where criminals coerce victims into sending money or other sensitive information by threatening to release compromising images or details. Criminals often pose as attractive individuals in their teens or early twenties, luring young men into sending explicit content before issuing threats.
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Berryman, who oversees investigations into sextortion cases, remarked on the situation, stating, “This boy is very young and perhaps didn’t understand what he was getting himself into.” He emphasized the importance of open communication, noting that the victim initially hesitated to inform his parents. Fortunately, he ultimately reported the crime, allowing police to intervene.
DCI Berryman reassured that after receiving guidance from officers, the teenager faced no further threats. “He told officers he felt better now that he’d had no further contact and said he wouldn’t do this again now he has been educated about how he can stay safe online,” he added.
The police suspect that the number associated with the sextortion attempt originated outside the UK, and investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrator. DCI Berryman further highlighted the severe impact of sextortion, stating, “It can destroy lives and have a devastating impact on victims, causing distress and fear, as well as deep shame and embarrassment.”
To combat this growing issue, Nottinghamshire Police are focused on prevention and awareness. In 2022, the force investigated 403 blackmail cases, with 265 identified as sextortion offences. In response, the police launched a campaign in collaboration with the University of Nottingham to educate young people about these dangers.
Additionally, Nottinghamshire Police have partnered with the Revenge Porn Helpline to create educational materials aimed at secondary schools and colleges in the region. This initiative is part of a broader effort to prevent individuals from falling victim to these crimes.
For those who feel they may have been a victim of sextortion, police stress the importance of reporting the incident. “If you believe you’ve been a victim of sextortion, please report it to us. Don’t feel embarrassed; we’re here to help you,” DCI Berryman urged.
To report sextortion or revenge porn, individuals can contact Nottinghamshire Police at 101, or in emergencies, always dial 999. For more information, individuals can also reach out to the Revenge Porn Helpline at 0345 6000 459 or visit their website.
