What to do if you are being blackmailed with photos

With how common it has become for people to exchange nude content with one another, online blackmail is more prominent than ever. Most think it’s safe because it will be an equal exchange. However, it doesn’t work that way with sextortionists. Keep reading to discover what to do if you are being blackmailed with photos.

How does photo blackmail happen?

One common way photo blackmail happens is through social media and dating apps. Criminals often create fake profiles to lure unsuspecting victims into sending them explicit photos. Once they have these photos, they threaten to release them to the victim’s friends, family, or colleagues unless they comply with their demands. Another way it can happen is through malware installed on your device. This malware can take control of your device’s camera and microphone, capturing photos and videos without your knowledge and then using them as leverage.

Steps To Take:

1. Contact the Police

The first step when dealing with blackmail is to contact the police. Blackmail is a crime, so the police should be your first point of contact. They have the legal authority to investigate and prosecute the blackmailer. It is crucial to provide the police with information that could help with the investigation, such as the blackmailer’s phone number, email address, or social media profile. You should also keep any communication between you and the blackmailer, as it could be useful evidence.

2. Don’t pay

One of the ways that blackmailers try to get what they want is through money. They could promise to destroy the photos or videos if you pay them a certain amount. However, you should never settle. Paying them will only encourage them and will not guarantee they won’t return asking for more money. Moreover, it would be best if you didn’t trust them to keep their word as they might still use the photos or videos to blackmail you.

3. Change Your Passwords

If the blackmailer could get hold of your photos or videos, they may have access to your online accounts, such as social media or email accounts. Therefore, changing all your passwords as soon as possible is essential. Use strong passwords that are not easy to guess, such as a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols. Also, enable two-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.

4. Contact the Website or Platform

If the blackmailer posted your photos or videos on a website or social media platform, you should contact the website or platform’s administrators. They can help you get the pictures or videos removed.

Most websites and platforms have policies prohibiting sharing explicit content without consent, and they have mechanisms to remove such content. You should also report the blackmailer’s account to prevent them from using the platform to blackmail other people.

5. Seek Professional Help

Blackmail can be a traumatic experience, and it’s perfectly okay to seek professional help and contact blackmail helplines. You could talk to a therapist or counselor who can help you process your emotions and regain control of your life. They can also help you come up with a plan on how to deal with the aftermath of the blackmail and how to prevent it from happening again in the future.

What to do if you are being blackmailed online

Being blackmailed with sensitive photos is a traumatic experience, but it is essential to remember that you are not alone. By contacting the police, not paying, changing your passwords, contacting the website or platform, and seeking professional help, you can regain control of your life and take steps to prevent the blackmailer from succeeding. Staying calm, seeking support, and taking the necessary actions to protect yourself are essential.