Sextortion
A form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images of a person unless they comply with demands, often for money or more images.
In plain English
A form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images of a person unless they comply with demands, often for money or more images.
Why it matters
Financially motivated sextortion of teenage boys has risen sharply. Offenders move quickly, often within hours. The advice from the NCA is clear: stop contact, do not pay, save evidence, and report to CEOP. The young person is the victim, not in trouble.
What to do
Parents and carers
Reassure your child they are not in trouble. Stop further contact, screenshot the threats, and report to CEOP.
Teens
Do not pay. Do not send more images. Block the account, screenshot everything, tell a trusted adult, and report to CEOP.
Related
Risks and topics
Reporting routes
Sources
- Sextortion: advice for young people— CEOP / National Crime Agency
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17