How to Deal with Online Blackmail
Online blackmail is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for victims. Whether it's a threat to release sensitive personal information or a demand for money, online blackmailers can cause significant distress and harm. If you're facing online blackmail, it's important to know how to deal with it effectively. In this article, we'll explore some strategies for dealing with online blackmail and protecting yourself from its harmful effects.
4 Main Steps
We going to explain everything in details, but essentially, it all comes down to 4 main steps:
Don't give in to the blackmailer's demands
Report the blackmail to professionals
Preserve all the evidence
Protect your personal information
We’re gonna discuss everything in details and show you some statistics, then we’ll break down the actual steps.
Now, let’s begin!
Online blackmailers often target individuals who they believe are vulnerable or easy to manipulate. This could include people who are going through a difficult time in their life, people who have recently experienced a breakup or divorce, or people who have a history of substance abuse or mental health issues. In some cases, online blackmailers may use social engineering tactics to gain access to sensitive information, such as by posing as a friend or family member.
If you're facing online blackmail, it's important to understand that you're not alone. Many people have experienced similar situations, and there are resources available to help you deal with the problem. The key is to stay calm and take action to protect yourself and your personal information.
All extortion cases per platform
Instagram is the most popular platform for cyber blackmail / online sextortion in 2022-2023.
Often, once the victim shared their private content on Instagram, the perpetrators then move conversation to Snapchat, in order to avoid their Instagram account being banned or suspended.
For several years, up until 2022, Facebook had remained the most popular platform for blackmail online. It still holds top 3 position.
First — Never comply. Don’t even think about giving into their demands.
NEVER. JUST NEVER.
Sounds bold and unreal? Well.. It is. Wait until second paragraph - you’ll see where it’s going. The first and most important rule when dealing with online blackmail is to never give in to the blackmailer's demands. This may seem obvious, but it can be tempting to comply with their requests in order to avoid the potential consequences of not doing so. However, giving in to the blackmailer's demands will only encourage them to continue their behavior, and it may not even guarantee that they won't release the information anyway.
If the blackmailer is demanding money, it's important to remember that paying them will only make the problem worse. Not only will you be rewarding their bad behavior, but there's no guarantee that they won't come back for more money in the future. Additionally, paying the blackmailer may put you at risk of further financial harm if they have access to your financial information.
Second — Report it. The sooner the better. Ideally, to professionals.
Try winning some time. Insist on it!
The next step in dealing with online blackmail is to report it. - but who you can report it to? Police? - other law authorities? You need to know one thing - most of this criminals are located far outside of the country they operate in. This is not a police jurisdiction. Plus, the police and others are simply not adapted to solving such cases. We recommend you reach out to the professionals. When facing online blackmail, seeking professional help should be one of the top priorities. This is because dealing with such a situation can be extremely stressful and overwhelming, and having the guidance of an expert can make a significant difference in the outcome.
Firstly, a professional can provide emotional support, which is vital when dealing with the trauma and fear that comes with being blackmailed. They can offer a safe space to express your concerns and anxieties, and help you process your emotions effectively. This can go a long way in reducing the psychological impact of the situation and preventing long-term damage.
Secondly, seeking professional help can ensure that you are taking the best actions possible in your situations. Dealing with the situations on your own can lead to regretful consequences. In the end, this is your life and reputation we are talking about. You will not be able to wash off irreparable damages to your reputation. Not even talking about job and other life opportunities you can lose. Moreover, a professional can help you navigate the complex technical aspects of online blackmail. They can takeover the situation and handle it, plus, they will advise you on how to preserve evidence and provide tips on how to protect yourself online in the future.
Basically, what we’re saying is: Win some time with extortionist. Postpone the payment, make something up - WHATEVER! Just win some time. Then, go and look for professional help. It’s crucial in your situation.
Third — save the evidence.
Take screenshots.
Take screen recordings.
Take care!
Taking screenshots of all your communication is a crucial first step in preserving evidence. This allows you to capture the offender's messages, as well as any images or videos they may have sent to you. It is also important to take screen recordings of any video chats or voice calls that occurred. These recordings can provide valuable evidence that may help identify the perpetrator and strengthen your case.
It is also important to pay attention to even the smallest details during your communication with the offender. Note down their Instagram or Snapchat usernames, their payment information, and any other information they provide, such as their email address or phone number. These details may prove to be crucial evidence in identifying the offender and bringing them to justice.
When it comes to payment information, it is important to be especially careful. Take note of any payment account that the offender provides, especially if the offender asks for payment in virtual currency such as Bitcoin, or ask you to use an app, like CashApp, PayPal, Ria, Wise, etc. This information can help track down the offender and, maybe, even recover any funds that may have been lost.
Fourth — protect your Info. Change passwords, set accounts to private, delete voicemail.
It’s time to go undercover.
Really.
Another important step in dealing with online blackmail is to protect your personal information. This may include changing your passwords, reviewing your privacy settings on social media accounts, and being careful about what you share online. It's also important to be wary of any unsolicited messages or emails, especially those that ask for personal information or money.
If you believe that your personal information has been compromised, it's important to take action to protect yourself. This may include contacting your bank or credit card company to report any suspicious activity, or placing a fraud alert on your credit report. It's also a good idea to monitor your accounts and credit report regularly to ensure that no unauthorized activity is taking place.
Still, if you are dealing with an online extortion, the best thing for you to do is to disable and change everything. Everything except the platform you use to communication with the extortionist, of course. And, please, be careful. It’s always better to consult with professionals.
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