NCA launches campaign against teen sextortion in UK

The National Crime Agency (NCA) is raising awareness about a growing issue called sextortion. This type of online scam primarily targets teenage boys. Criminals, often posing as young women, blackmail boys into sharing explicit photos and then demand money in return for not sharing those images. A concerning statistic from the NCA shows that 90% of sextortion victims are boys aged 14 to 17. These boys are usually approached on social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram. The criminals create fake profiles and gain the trust of their victims before pressuring them to send explicit material. Once they have these images, they use them to request money, with demands typically around £100. Sheena Peckham from the online safety group Internet Matters advises parents on how to talk with their teens about sextortion. She notes that victims may hesitate to report these incidents due to feelings of fear, embarrassment, or shame. This silence can harm their mental health and well-being. Open conversations can help teens recognize potential threats and encourage them to seek help if they become victims. To foster these discussions, Peckham suggests avoiding a formal sit-down chat. Instead, she recommends talking during activities like driving, walking, or eating dinner. Parents can use news stories to start the conversation and ask questions like, "Have you heard of sextortion?" This can create a safe space where teens feel comfortable sharing their experiences. When discussing sensitive topics, it’s essential for parents to remain calm and supportive. Instead of reacting negatively, they should ask how their child feels about their choices. If a child experiences sextortion, they should gather evidence like screenshots before blocking the perpretrator. It’s also important to report the incident to the police. If explicit images are shared online, tools like Report Remove can help remove them. Lastly, parents should encourage their children to talk about their feelings and offer support through helplines like Childline. Regular check-ins can help ensure their mental health is supported.