{"id":4557,"date":"2024-04-19T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2024-04-19T04:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.digitalforensics.com\/blog\/?p=4557"},"modified":"2025-11-10T21:16:14","modified_gmt":"2025-11-10T21:16:14","slug":"new-techniques-in-fighting-sextortion-and-online-blackmail","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.digitalforensics.com\/blog\/sextortion-online\/new-techniques-in-fighting-sextortion-and-online-blackmail\/","title":{"rendered":"How Digital Forensics Allows Investigators to Track Down Online Scammers & Blackmailers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Cybercrime is on an astronomic rise. Some experts even predict that the global cost of cybercrime could eclipse $10 trillion dollars<\/a> in 2025. And of all the cybercrime complaints reported to the IC3 in 2024, extortion was the second highest with over 86,000 reports. Our current interconnected digital environment allows criminals to target anyone from anywhere in the world. Because of this, it\u2019s critical that cybersecurity experts are able to uncover the true location and identity of these bad actors. Continue reading to learn more about how investigators trace online blackmailers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/span>How Investigators Trace Online Blackmailers<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Every device that connects to the internet has a numerical code, called an IP address. At Digital Forensics Corp., our expert digital forensics investigators use a proprietary process called IP to Location ID to track down the IP address, service providers and geographic locations used by online blackmailers. That provides specific, solid evidence that law enforcement can use to take swift action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Furthermore, each online interaction leaves a trail of code that can be traced back to the source. For example, shared files contain metadata that can reveal the file\u2019s origin, devices used to create it, and history of alteration. This data can be used to trace a file back to the person who sent it, revealing their true identity. In cases involving cryptocurrency payments, investigators may also use crypto wallet tracing<\/a> to follow the flow of funds and uncover the blackmailer\u2019s financial footprint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Digital investigators may also choose to take a more human approach. For example, our analysts can step in and take over communication with the blackmailer in your role. This allows our team to discreetly gather intel on the perpetrator without raising any red flags. Combining this with technical strategies like tracker links can yield successful results in tracking online blackmailers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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