Video Transcript

Nationwide, financially motivated sextortion can lead victims, self-harm, and suicide.

In the past year and a half, federal law enforcement received over 13,000 reports of financial sextortion of minors. At least 20 victims of financial sex version of committed suicide victims are typically males between the ages of 14 to 17, but any child can become a victim.

Financial sextortion starts with an online predator, often through unexpected contact coercing a minor to send sexually explicit images or videos. The predator then threatens to release the compromising material unless they receive money from the minor payment as demanded in gift cards, crypto currency, or payment apps.

Children often feel scared and embarrassed and will comply with demands. The predator sometimes releases the material regardless of payment. For parents, educators and caregivers talk to children about the dangers and consequences of sending sexually explicit material online.

Encourage open lines of communication for children. If you have sent sexually explicit material and are being threatened, know you are not to blame. You are not alone. And you can get through this. Talking about this can feel impossible, but there are people who can help. Talk to a trusted adult. Remember, anyone can be a victim.

Protect your children. Protect yourself. Go to FBI.gov/sextortion to learn more. If you or someone you know believe you are a victim of sextortion. Report it to law enforcement.