Kik is a texting app that is popular with teenagers, with 70% of Kik users aged between 13 and 24 years old. It has many features that are attractive to young people, such as the ability to send photos and videos that disappear after a short time. However, Kik also has a dark side. Keep reading to find out the types of scams on Kik and what to do if you are being blackmailed.
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Some predators use the app to scam people and blackmail them for money or sexual favors. The app lets users communicate without revealing their actual names or phone numbers, and Kik doesn’t track their message content or phone numbers. Because of this, it is almost impossible for law enforcement and parents to gather information about the person sending the message. If you’re a Kik user, it’s important to be aware of these dangers and take steps to protect yourself.
What is a Kik Scam?
A Kik scam is simply a dishonest scheme; a fraud taking place on Kik. A lot of these scams can turn into Blackmail, which is the action of demanding payment or another benefit from someone in return for not revealing compromising or damaging information about them. There are 2 major categories of scams on Kik which are Kik bots and catfishing.
What is Catfishing on Kik?
Catfishing is a deceptive activity where a person creates a fictional persona or fake identity on a social networking service, usually targeting a specific victim. A common scenario you could see on Kik is someone reaching out to you and sending flirty messages or pictures trying to get you to send information or explicit images. When this happens, the entire environment changes. Threats and blackmail ensue, as well as demands for money.
What to do if you are being Blackmailed on KIK:
You should not pay your blackmailer. There is no guarantee that they will leave you alone, and they will probably just demand more money from you.
Do not block them! Often these scammers have multiple accounts blocking them will just make them more aggressive. Instead of blocking them, try and stall them so you can get help.
Hold onto all evidence and document everything.
Report the criminal right away! File a police report with local law enforcement and report the crime online to the FBI. Blackmail is a federal crime.
KIK Bots Scam example
Kik bots, usually want to talk but do not reveal any information. Kik Porn Premium/Kik Hooker scam is where a fake program or bot will message a Kik user and try and entice them to subscribe. To subscribe you have to enter your credit card info. Once this is done the site may disappear or make you sign up for more sites. They might send you Suspicious links do not click on them. Never send anyone your photos or information.
How to Identify a KIK bot:
Profile isn’t linked to any social media.
The Bio looks fishy or too good to be true.
Check their profile photo, sophisticated bots may use photos stolen from other accounts.
Conclusion
Kik is a great platform for communicating with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that come with using this app. We hope our tips will help you stay safe while using Kik. The crime of Kik blackmail can have a devastating effect on the Victim. Start a case today with Digital Investigation if you find yourself being scammed ok Kik. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you fight back against online blackmail on Kik.
