When it first released video call capabilities in 2005, Skype revolutionized the way we communicate. We were suddenly able to talk with family and friends around the world through a digital window, but cybercriminals snuck in where safety locks weren’t used.
Skype’s communication capacities create a commonwealth of cybercrime such as blackmail and extortion. Through social engineering, bad actors can coerce their targets to promulgate private information that can be weaponized against them.
This susceptibility to scammers may cause Skype users to take pause, but it is possible to safely socialize on the site. Continue reading to learn how you can successfully recognize and stop blackmail attempts on Skype.
Understanding Skype Blackmail
Whether you’re trying to prevent falling victim to blackmail on Skype or are currently being blackmailed and want it to stop, it is critical to understand what brings about the situation to begin with.
Skype’s video call and communication features make it attractive to cybercriminals looking to record or receive content that puts their target in a vulnerable position. This media can then be used as leverage for online blackmail and other cyber harassment.
How Skype Blackmail Works
Cybercriminals will often encounter their target on another platform, such as social media or a dating app. Once they’ve built a base-level bond, the blackmailer will move the conversation to Skype. They often explain that they want less restrictive communication or propose a video call to initiate this move.
Once on the platform, the perpetrator will initiate a conversation that compels the target to confide some form of clandestine content. They will then record video calls and screenshot messages to obtain leverage that can be used to extort the target.
Why Skype Users Are Vulnerable
Skype’s communication features allow users to easily share personal and intimate information. The video call aspect often gives users an unsound sense of security that their conversations won’t leave behind any remnants and that they can trust the person they see on their screen.
However, video calls can easily be recorded without the knowledge of the other party. On top of that, many cybercriminals will use loops of recorded videos to make their target believe they are talking with somebody completely different.
The Emotional Impact of Skype Blackmail
The effects of blackmail on Skype expand far past the financial implications of extortion. Cybercriminals play on their target’s trust to obtain their personal data, whether it be through posing as a romantic interest, professional contact, or an established and trusted entity.
Many victims of online blackmail feel an immense mix of shame, fear, and anxiety. Far too many cases go unreported because the victim feels too embarrassed or afraid to seek help. It’s important to remember you are not alone and there is a path to remediation.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you are being blackmailed on Skype, it’s imperative that you act immediately. You should complete the following procedures as soon as you recognize that you are at risk of being extorted:
- Do Not Pay the Blackmailer: Paying a blackmailer will not make them go away, it will only incentivize them to continue extorting you. They are criminals and have already displayed deceptive tendencies in your previous interactions.
- Document Everything: Take screenshots of profiles, chat logs, and any content that was shared with you or displays threatening messages. You do not need to document any of your own private or sensitive data.
- Block the Blackmailer: You can block someone who is blackmailing or harassing you on Skype by going to their profile from either the “Chats” or “Contacts” tab and selecting “Block contact”.
- Report to Skype: When blocking a user on Skype, you will be presented with the choice to report them to the system administrator. Use the evidence you’ve collected to report the user to the platform and protect yourself and others from future harassment.
Reporting to Authorities
If the previous steps weren’t enough to stop the Skype blackmail, you should seek the assistance of law enforcement. These agencies have resources and experience investigating these cybercrimes that you won’t have access to alone. Start with your local police precinct and work your way up as needed.
FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
The next step should be reporting the crime to the FBI through their IC3 hub. The IC3 is the national task-force responsible for fielding reports of all cybercrimes in the United States. Cybercrime is defined as any illegal activity that is assisted using cyber-related means on the IC3 website.
You can report any instance of cyber-enabled crime to the IC3 using the online report form on their page. You will be asked to include the contact information of both you and the perpetrator, information regarding any financial loss and transaction history, and specific details outlining the events.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
The FTC handles cases of extortion and other cybercrimes that violate consumer protection and competition laws that the agency enforces. This includes fraud, scams, and privacy violations that are all conducted in a Skype blackmail scheme.
If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a scam, or simply believe you’ve come across one, you can report it through the FTC’s Report Fraud page. You can provide as much information as you feel comfortable with. You will receive information on how to rectify your situation, and your report can help the FTC protect you and others from future scams.
Securing Your Skype Account
Regardless of if you’ve been targeted by a blackmailer on Skype, it’s always beneficial to ensure the security of your account. The following practices can improve your Skype safety and limit the risk of a cybercriminal harassing you:
- Change Your Password: You should use strong and unique passwords for each online account you open and utilize two-factor authentication (2FA) whenever it’s offered. A password manager can help create and store strong passwords for you.
- Review Your Privacy Settings: You can adjust settings regarding who can view your profile, send you contact requests, and see when you’re online among other features. Limiting unwanted access to your account can prohibit a blackmailer from reaching you on Skype.
- Be Cautious of Links and Files: You should never open any links or attachments sent to you from unknown users on any platform. These links often contain malware that can compromise your entire network of accounts and devices.
Legal Options to Stop Skype Blackmail
Online blackmail and extortion are illegal at both the federal and state level in the United States. You can learn more about the specific protections in your area in our article discussing the laws on blackmail.
Depending in where you reside, you may choose to pursue civil or criminal charges against your Skype blackmailer. You will want to carefully consider the laws around blackmail when choosing your course of action.
Working with an Attorney
Consulting legal counsel who specializes in cybercrime can help you gain a better grasp of the blackmail laws in your area and determine the best path to resolving the matter. In addition to helping you craft a criminal or civil case, an attorney can help you demonstrate imminent danger or irreparable harm to obtain a restraining order or injunctive relief.
Resources and Support
In addition to law enforcement and legal counsel, there are a number of organizations that can help blackmail victims investigate their case, educate themselves on cybercrime trends, and connect with emotional support resources. Utilizing a combination of all of the tools at your disposal can put you in position to make an optimal recovery.
Cybercrime Support Network
The Cybercrime Support Network is a non-profit organization working to assist victims of cybercrimes in recognizing, reporting, and recovering from scams. You can report scams through their website and access support groups to connect with others who have a shared experience.
CSN also provides educational media and quizzes which can help you learn more about cybercrimes to keep yourself and your loved ones safe online. They even provide resources that can help you find the best way to educate those around you on cybersecurity practices.
Working With Digital Forensics
If you’re faced with blackmail on Skype or any other online platform, DFC is here to help. Our team of experts has helped resolve thousands of cases pertaining to a wide variety of clients, meaning we have seen it all.
This experience has allowed us to develop cutting-edge techniques in metadata analysis, IP tracking, and geolocation to break through a blackmailer’s believed identity and provide you with documentation that you can use to legally pursue them.
If you are trying to stop a Skype blackmailer, you don’t need to handle it alone. Call our Blackmail Helpline today for a free consultation with one of our specialists.
DISCLAIMER: THIS POST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY SUBJECT MATTER. DIGITAL FORENSICS CORP. IS NOT A LAWFIRM AND DOES NOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE OR SERVICES. By viewing posts, the reader understands there is no attorney-client relationship, the post should not be used as a substitute for legal advice from a licensed professional attorney, and readers are urged to consult their own legal counsel on any specific legal questions concerning a specific situation.
