Force receives 120 sextortion reports since October

A police force has received more than 120 reports of sextortion since October.

Sextortion is a type of online blackmail where someone threatens to share sexual pictures, videos, or information about someone unless they pay money or do something else they do not want to.

Northamptonshire Police said most of the victims were young boys who had shared sexual images of themselves with someone who turned out to be a blackmailer.

The force said offenders often operate outside the local area or even outside of the country, frequently using false identities, encrypted platforms and accounts that were quickly deleted.

Det Insp Liam O'Neill said: "Ask yourself why anyone would ask for sexual photos straight away and take a moment to think before you press send."

The force said suspects were often "extremely difficult" to trace and, in many cases, were never identified making early reporting "crucial".

Det Insp O'Neill added: "If you have a been a victim of sextortion, please know that you are not alone. This type of crime is sadly quite common at the present time, but we can help, we don't judge, and there really is no shame in making a mistake in choosing who to trust.

"If you have shared intimate images and find yourself being blackmailed as a result, please report it immediately to the police and try not to panic - you are a victim and it is not your fault.

"Victims who come forward can receive safeguarding advice, help to prevent further contact or harm, and support from specialist teams."

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