Sextortion is one form of cyber extortion that occurs when coercion is used, such as blackmail, to get sexual content from the victim, engage in sex with them, or obtain money from the victim.
Some tactics used include:
- Sexting happens when someone takes and shares an intimate image with someone else. "Revenge porn" may result after the relationship ends and a scorned party distributes the material. The images may be posted online, often with identifying information, contact information, employer information, or links to social media profiles. Alternatively, the images may also be distributed directly to the victim’s co-workers, friends, and family.
- Someone demands that the victim provide them with sexual images, sexual favors, or other things of value. These demands come with threats to harm or embarrass the victims if they fail to comply. In many of these cases, the perpetrators will target their victims on social media Web sites and during on-line gaming.
A significant issue with sextortion is that it’s an embarrassing topic, and probably not talked about as much as it should be. However, if you are asked to send explicit images or videos, or have become involved in a case of sextortion, it’s important to report it. Not only can law enforcement help you, but you can also help prevent the perpetrator from targeting more victims.

Resource for victims of nonconsensual pornography (NCP) or Revenge Porn