FBI Issue Joint Warning About Global Financial Sextortion Crisis

HI INDIA NEWS DESK
WASHINGTON, DC- The FBI, in collaboration with international law enforcement agencies, is issuing a dire warning about a global financial sextortion crisis. This crime involves coercing minor boys into sending explicit images online and then extorting them for money. The FBI received thousands of reports in 2022, reflecting an alarming increase, and is aware of over a dozen related suicides.

Key Points:

1- Global Crisis: Financial sextortion is a worldwide issue affecting children everywhere. It primarily happens on digital platforms where children spend their screen time, like social media, gaming websites, and video chat applications.

2- Predator Tactics: Predators often pose as peers and use fake accounts to deceive boys into sending explicit photos or videos, then threaten to release the materials unless paid. In many cases, they release the images regardless of payment.

3- Offline Impact: Victims often feel alone, ashamed, and scared, sometimes resorting to self-harm. Law enforcement emphasizes that victims are not in trouble and should seek help.

Protective Measures:
• Accountability: The predator is to blame, not the victim.

• Report and Block: Use platform safety features to report and block the predator without deleting any messages.

• Seek Help: Consult a trusted adult or law enforcement before taking any further actions.
Life After Images: Trust that there is hope and support available.

Contact Information:
• FBI: Reach out to your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or report online at tips.fbi.gov.

• NCMEC: The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children offers resources and support at missingkids.org.

Statements from Law Enforcement Leaders:
•  FBI Director Christopher Wray: Emphasizes the global impact and the FBI’s collaboration with international partners.

• Michelle DeLaune, CEO, NCMEC: Highlights the importance of education and support for victims.

• Gord Sage, RCMP: Stresses the serious implications of these crimes and the support available from police.

• Robert Jones, National Crime Agency: Advocates for international cooperation and ongoing safety conversations.

• Chief Myron Demkiw, Toronto Police Service: Underscores the role of local and international partnerships in raising awareness and protecting children.

Resources by Country:
• USA: FBI, National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, DHS-ICE

• Australia: Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation

• Canada: Canadian Centre for Child Protection, Cybertip.ca, RCMP, Toronto Police Service

• New Zealand: New Zealand Police

• United Kingdom: National Crime Agency’s CEOP Education

On this Safer Internet Day, we urge caregivers and children to educate themselves about financial sextortion and to take proactive steps in protecting against this pervasive crime.