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16 October 2024 | Comment | Article by Alan Collins

The growing threat of sextortion: Protecting ourselves in a digital age


The internet has transformed our world in ways we could have never imagined. It has opened up new possibilities for communication, entertainment, and even how we build relationships. However, along with these opportunities comes a darker side to the digital world—sextortion, a rapidly growing cybercrime that preys on people’s most vulnerable moments. With recent cases like that of Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed and the infamous “Yahoo Boys,” it is clear that sextortion is a serious and dangerous threat that demands our attention.

What is sextortion?

Sextortion is a form of online blackmail where predators threaten to expose sensitive or sexually explicit content—such as images, videos, or personal conversations—unless the victim complies with their demands. These demands can range from more explicit content to money or other forms of exploitation. Sextortion often traps victims in a cycle of fear and control, making it incredibly hard for them to break free without external help.

The worst part? Anyone can be a victim of sextortion. However, young people, especially teens between 15 and 30, are particularly vulnerable, with predators often using social media, dating apps, and even gaming platforms to manipulate their targets.

Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed: A chilling case

In one of the most high-profile sextortion cases to date, Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed was sentenced to 17 years in prison for orchestrating a global sextortion ring. Rasheed, who posed as a popular teenage YouTuber, preyed on young girls from 20 countries. Using threats and blackmail, he coerced more than 280 victims into performing degrading acts on camera, manipulating them through fear and shame.

This case, prosecuted in Australia, is one of the worst examples of sextortion in recent history. Rasheed’s cruelty knew no bounds—many of his victims expressed suicidal thoughts, but he continued to exploit them regardless of their obvious distress. His victims, two-thirds of whom were under the age of 16, have been left with lifelong trauma, a stark reminder of how devastating this crime can be.

Man posing as YouTube star jailed for global sextortion plot | BBC News

The “Yahoo Boys” and the global scale of sextortion

Rasheed’s case is not isolated. In the UK, a notorious gang known as the “Yahoo Boys” has driven at least three teenagers to suicide through sextortion. Initially starting their operations through email scams in the 1990s, the Yahoo Boys have evolved into one of the most infamous sextortion gangs, preying on vulnerable young people and blackmailing them for explicit content or money.

The Yahoo Boys use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp to target their victims, often creating fake profiles to lure young teens. What makes this group even more despicable is their flaunting of wealth—showing off luxury cars, designer clothes, and lavish lifestyles funded by their exploitation of others. Despite ongoing efforts by social media companies to crack down on these accounts, the Yahoo Boys continue to find new ways to evade detection.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, recently shut down over 63,000 accounts linked to the Yahoo Boys. However, investigative journalists have reported that these accounts can still be easily found, and experts warn that this problem is only growing.

Evil world of Yahoo Boys sextortion gang who drive Brits to suicide… and then flaunt £1k trainers from ill-gotten gains | The Sun

The psychological impact on victims

The emotional and psychological toll of sextortion is profound. Victims often experience overwhelming feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, which prevent them from seeking help. This leads to a cycle of suffering, where victims believe they are to blame for their situation, while predators continue to exploit them. The long-term effects include severe mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and, tragically, suicidal thoughts or actions.

According to the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), sextortion cases involving boys have risen dramatically, with young boys aged 16 and 17 making up a significant percentage of victims. The number of reported cases in 2023 surged from just 22 in 2022 to 176, a disturbing increase that highlights the growing scope of this crime. Many victims, however, do not report their abuse out of fear, meaning the true number of cases is likely far higher.

How to protect yourself from sextortion

While sextortion is a frightening reality, there are ways to protect yourself and reduce your risk of becoming a victim. Here are some key tips:

  1. Be cautious with online interactions: Be wary of people you meet online, especially those who quickly push for personal or intimate information. Scammers often use fake profiles and false identities to lure victims.
  2. Don’t share explicit content: Avoid sharing sensitive images or videos with people you have not met in person or fully trust. Once this content is out there, it can be used to manipulate or blackmail you.
  3. Recognise red flags: If someone you’ve recently met online is rushing a relationship or persistently asking for explicit content, it could be an attempt at sextortion. Trust your instincts.
  4. Report suspicious behaviour: If someone threatens you or tries to blackmail you, report it immediately to the platform you’re using and to law enforcement. Time is of the essence in preventing further abuse.
  5. Seek help if you’re a victim: Remember that sextortion is never your fault, and there are resources available to help you. The Revenge Porn Helpline and the Internet Watch Foundation offer confidential support for victims of online exploitation.

Technology and sextortion: The role of social media platforms

Social media platforms play a critical role in the ongoing fight against sextortion. While they provide many benefits for staying connected, these platforms have become prime hunting grounds for predators. Companies like Meta have made strides in detecting and removing criminal accounts, but as the Yahoo Boys case shows, these efforts often fall short. Scammers are continuously evolving their tactics, even using artificial intelligence to create fake identities and manipulate their victims more effectively.

It’s crucial that social media companies continue to invest in safety tools that can identify suspicious activity, shut down predator accounts, and protect users, particularly young people, from these threats. Law enforcement must also work closely with tech companies to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and that victims receive the help they need.

Conclusion: Taking a stand against sextortion

Sextortion is a serious and growing threat, affecting people across the globe. The cases of Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed and the Yahoo Boys highlight the devastating consequences of this crime, but they also remind us that we must take action to protect ourselves and others. Awareness and education are critical to preventing sextortion and ensuring that victims feel safe to come forward without shame or fear.

By having open conversations about online safety, recognising the warning signs of sextortion, and supporting those affected, we can begin to combat this disturbing crime. It’s equally important for social media platforms to strengthen their efforts in protecting users and shutting down the accounts of those who exploit them.

If you or someone you know has been affected by sextortion, remember that you are not alone. Help is available. Contact organisations like the Revenge Porn Helpline or the Internet Watch Foundation for support and guidance.

Useful resources

Together, we can fight back against sextortion and create a safer digital world for everyone.

Get more help

If you or someone you know is being targeted by sextortion, reach out to our Sexual Abuse Solicitors today for a confidential consultation and let us help you take action against sextortion.

Podcast on the story

Episode 266: The Dark Reality of Sextortion – A Global Crisis

Welcome to this episode of the H.J. Talks About Abuse podcast, where we delve into the pressing issue of sextortion, a form of online blackmail that has become a global crisis. Hosted by Danielle Vincent and her colleague Hannah Hodgson, this episode sheds light on recent cases and the devastating impact on victims.

We discuss the alarming rise of sextortion cases, including a man posing as a YouTube star and a UK-targeting gang known as the Yahoo Boys. Learn about the tactics used by these criminals, from fake identities to AI-generated images, and the severe consequences faced by victims, often leading to tragic outcomes like suicide.

Our hosts emphasise the importance of recognising the signs of sextortion and the need for support and legal action. With insights into the role of social media platforms and the efforts to combat this epidemic, this episode aims to inform and empower listeners.

This conversation highlights the importance of awareness, education, and open dialogue in preventing online abuse. Stay safe, and always be cautious when interacting with new people online.

Frequently asked questions

If you’re being sextorted, it’s important to take the following steps to protect yourself and seek help:

Stop all communication

Immediately cease communication with the person attempting to extort you. Do not give in to any demands, including paying money or providing further explicit material.

Do not comply with demands

Never send more money or explicit images. Paying or complying with their demands will often lead to more threats rather than resolving the situation.

Document everything

Take screenshots of any messages, emails, or social media communications, and note down any details like usernames, account information, and threats. This will be useful evidence for authorities.

Report the incident

  • To the police: Contact your local police force and report the sextortion. This is a criminal matter, and law enforcement can help track down the perpetrator.
  • To the platform: Report the user on the social media platform or app where the sextortion occurred. Most platforms have mechanisms for reporting abuse.

Seek legal advice

If you feel threatened or at risk, a solicitor experienced in handling online abuse or sexual exploitation cases can provide specific guidance. They can assist with safeguarding measures and advice on your legal rights.

Inform trusted people

It can be helpful to speak to a trusted friend or family member for emotional support during this time. If you feel vulnerable, they can help you take the necessary steps.

Consider cybersecurity measures

  • Change passwords: Update passwords for all accounts, especially if the sextorter has threatened to hack or release private information.
  • Enable two-factor authentication: This can provide extra security to prevent unauthorised access to your accounts.

Access support services

In the UK, organisations such as Victim Support and The Revenge Porn Helpline can offer free advice and guidance to help you deal with the situation emotionally and practically.

If you’re in immediate danger, dial 999 for emergency assistance.

Yes, sextortion can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Sextortion is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images, videos, or personal information unless you comply with their demands, which could include more explicit material or money.

Key points to consider

  • Online Vulnerability: Sextortion often occurs on social media, dating apps, messaging platforms, or through email, where people may share intimate content or engage in private conversations.
  • Targets: Perpetrators can target anyone, whether they are teenagers, adults, professionals, or public figures. Vulnerable groups, such as younger people or those less familiar with online risks, can be more susceptible, but no one is immune.
  • Criminals Use Deception: Offenders often pose as someone else, such as a romantic interest, using fake identities or “catfishing” to lure victims into sharing private content. They may also hack into devices or social media accounts to obtain intimate material.

Why it can happen to anyone

  • Widespread use of technology: Almost everyone uses the internet and social media, making it easier for offenders to reach potential victims.
  • Emotional manipulation: Offenders often exploit trust, shame, or fear, which can happen to anyone in vulnerable moments.
  • Anonymity of perpetrators: The internet allows perpetrators to hide their identity and location, making it easier for them to target individuals without being traced.

If you or someone you know becomes a victim of sextortion, it is important to report it to the authorities and seek help. No one should feel too embarrassed or afraid to reach out for support, as it is a crime and the perpetrators can be held accountable.

If you are a victim of sextortion, there are several legal actions you can take to protect yourself and seek justice. In the UK, sextortion is considered a serious crime, and the law offers various remedies to address the situation.

Report to the police

Sextortion is a form of blackmail, which is a criminal offence under the Theft Act 1968 in the UK. The police can investigate the crime and potentially prosecute the offender. When you report it, provide as much evidence as possible, such as screenshots, emails, or other communications.

  • Blackmail (Theft Act 1968, Section 21): The act of threatening to release explicit material in exchange for money or other demands is considered blackmail, which can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Civil action for damages

If the sextorter has caused you significant harm, you may also be able to pursue civil action for damages. This could involve suing the perpetrator for emotional distress, financial loss, or reputational damage. While criminal prosecution addresses the public interest, civil litigation can provide you with personal compensation.

Non-consensual sharing of images (Revenge porn law)

If the sextorter threatens to or has shared explicit material without your consent, this is a separate criminal offence under the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015. The law prohibits the sharing of private sexual images or videos without the consent of the person depicted, and offenders can face up to two years in prison.

  • Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 (Section 33): Sharing private sexual images with intent to cause distress can lead to serious legal consequences.

Injunction or restraining order

If you feel in danger or harassed, you may be able to apply for a non-molestation order or an injunction through the civil courts. This can legally prevent the perpetrator from contacting you or distributing any further material. If the order is breached, the perpetrator can be arrested.

Report to the online platform

Most social media platforms and websites have strict policies against sextortion, blackmail, and non-consensual image sharing. You can report the account or incident to the platform where the abuse is happening, and they can take action to remove the content and possibly help trace the offender.

Data protection action

If the offender has unlawfully obtained or is threatening to misuse your personal information, you may have a claim under the Data Protection Act 2018. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) can investigate any breach of your data rights.

Seek legal advice

You may want to consult a solicitor who specialises in sexual abuse, cybercrime, or defamation cases. They can help you navigate both the criminal and civil avenues, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.

Support from organisations

Several UK organisations offer legal and emotional support for victims of sextortion:

  • Revenge Porn Helpline: Offers free advice and guidance on dealing with non-consensual sharing of intimate images.
  • Victim Support: Provides emotional and practical assistance to victims of crime.

It is important to act quickly and seek legal and professional advice to protect yourself from further harm.

Yes, you can sue the person who sextorted you in the UK, both through criminal and civil legal actions. Here’s how you can pursue this:

Civil lawsuit for damages

You can bring a civil claim against the person who sextorted you to seek compensation for the harm they caused, including emotional distress, psychological harm, reputational damage, and any financial losses you suffered.

  • Claim for emotional distress: Sextortion can cause severe emotional and psychological harm. You can claim compensation for anxiety, stress, and mental health issues caused by the experience.
  • Claim for financial losses: If you were coerced into paying money or lost earnings due to the situation (e.g., having to take time off work), you may be able to claim compensation for these losses.
  • Claim for reputational damage: If the offender shared or threatened to share explicit material that damaged your reputation, you can seek compensation for the harm to your personal and professional life.

Defamation (if applicable)

If the perpetrator made false statements or shared content with the intent to defame your character, you could bring a defamation claim. This would be relevant if the material they threatened to release was altered or misrepresented and caused harm to your reputation.

Breach of privacy

You may have a legal basis to sue for breach of privacy under the Human Rights Act 1998 and the Data Protection Act 2018. If the sextorter unlawfully obtained or shared intimate images or personal information, this is a violation of your right to privacy.

  • Human Rights Act (Article 8): Protects your right to respect for private and family life. If your privacy was invaded, you may be able to claim compensation.
  • Data Protection Act 2018: If the offender accessed or shared your personal data without consent, you can seek damages for the breach.

Non-consensual sharing of images (Revenge porn law)

If the person shared, or threatened to share, intimate images or videos without your consent, this is a criminal offence under the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015. While this is a criminal action, you may also bring a civil claim for damages in connection with the psychological and reputational harm caused.

Tort of harassment

If the perpetrator’s actions amounted to persistent harassment, you can bring a claim under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997. This can be pursued in civil courts, and if successful, you may be awarded compensation.

Seek legal advice

It’s important to consult a solicitor who specialises in sexual abuse, cybercrime, or privacy cases. They can assess your situation and help you determine the most appropriate legal avenue. A solicitor can also help you gather the necessary evidence, file the claim, and represent your interests in court.
In summary, you can sue the person who sextorted you for emotional distress, financial losses, reputational damage, breach of privacy, and harassment. Seeking legal advice is crucial to navigating the process effectively.

Yes, after being a victim of sextortion or any cyberattack, there are several steps you can take to ensure your personal data is safer and protect yourself from further breaches. Here’s how you can safeguard your personal information:

Change your passwords immediately

Start by changing the passwords for all your online accounts, especially those that might have been compromised or connected to the sextortion incident. Make sure to use strong, unique passwords for each account.

  • Use a password manager: This can help generate and store complex passwords securely without needing to remember them all.
  • Avoid reusing passwords: Each account should have a different password to prevent a single breach from affecting multiple accounts.

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Wherever possible, enable two-factor authentication on your accounts. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification (such as a code sent to your phone) in addition to your password.

  • Most platforms like social media, email, and banking services offer 2FA, which significantly reduces the risk of unauthorised access.

Check for breached data

Use websites like Have I Been Pwned to check if your email addresses or other personal data have been involved in known data breaches. This can help you understand which accounts may be vulnerable.

  • If any accounts have been affected, take steps to secure them by updating passwords and enabling additional security features.

Audit your online presence

Search your name and any associated personal information online to see what data is publicly available. This includes social media profiles, public records, and old accounts you may have forgotten about.

  • Delete or deactivate old, unused accounts that could still have access to your personal information.
  • Adjust privacy settings on social media platforms to limit who can see your personal details and posts.

Report and remove shared data

If the perpetrator has already shared your personal information, intimate images, or other sensitive content online, you can take action to have it removed:

  • Report to social media platforms or websites: Use their reporting mechanisms to flag inappropriate content for removal.
  • Contact the Revenge Porn Helpline: In the UK, this helpline offers free advice and assistance with the removal of intimate images that have been shared without consent.

Monitor your financial accounts

If your financial details were compromised, keep a close eye on your bank accounts, credit cards, and any financial transactions. Consider notifying your bank or credit card provider to be extra cautious.

  • Consider placing a fraud alert with credit reference agencies like Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. This ensures any attempts to open new credit accounts in your name will be flagged for investigation.

Update security software

Ensure your devices have up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software installed. This will help detect and remove malicious software that may have been installed during the attack.

  • Regularly run virus and malware scans to ensure your devices are secure.
  • Keep your operating system and all apps updated to fix any security vulnerabilities.

Back up important data

Create secure backups of important data to avoid losing information in case of a cyberattack or data loss. Use external hard drives or cloud-based services to store these backups, and ensure they are encrypted.

Be aware of phishing attempts

After an attack, you may become a target for phishing attempts—emails or messages trying to trick you into revealing more personal information. Be cautious of unsolicited communications, especially those asking for personal or financial details.

  • Verify links and attachments before clicking or downloading, even if they appear to come from familiar sources.

Seek professional advice

If you’re concerned that your personal data is still vulnerable, consider consulting a cybersecurity expert. They can assess your systems and help secure any remaining vulnerabilities.

  • Legal advice: In the case of sextortion or other online abuse, seek legal advice on how to further protect your rights and remove shared information.

Taking these steps will significantly reduce the risk of further breaches and help ensure your personal data remains safe following a cyberattack or sextortion incident.

Author bio

Alan Collins

Partner

Alan Collins is one of the best known and most experienced solicitors in the field of child abuse litigation and has acted in many high profile cases, including the Jimmy Savile and Haut de la Garenne abuse scandals. Alan has represented interested parties before public inquiries including the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry, and IICSA (Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse).

Internationally, Alan works in Australia, South East Asia, Uganda, Kenya, and California representing clients in high profile sexual abuse cases. Alan also spoke at the Third Regional Workshop on Justice for Children in East Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok hosted by Unicef and HCCH (Hague Conference on Private International Law).

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

 

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