Online extortion scams happen when cybercriminals threaten to hurt you. And it can be terrifying and stressful for you. So, what to do if you are being extorted online? What to Do if You Are Being Extorted Online.
What these hackers want, varies depending on the types of online extortion.
Criminals share certain similarities. If you learn, you can use all this against them.
And fight back to protect your reputation or physical wellbeing.
In the 2022 Internet Crime Report. The FBI confirmed that cybercriminals continue to plague both Americans north and south.
In this time over 800,944 reported complaints, with losses exceeding $10.3 billion.
How you are being extorted/threatened?
Many types of online extortion start with innocent conversations.
And there are different types of extortion scams. And each one requires different steps to take into consideration.
Romance Scams: These happen when you feel you have found someone special or a match on an online dating site or app.
But, the person you’re talking to is actually a scammer using a fake profile.
· Data Extortion:
Such scams involve data encryption. These actually threaten you that your data would be made public. In a data breach. Cybercriminals steal the organization’s data and request money in return.
Blackmail: This a form of manipulation that forces you to do something against your will.
The blackmailer does this by revealing private information or photos if you don’t comply. Blackmail is a broad term that covers four categories:
sensitive information exposure, sextortion, sexploitation, and escort scams.
Protection Scams: These occur when scammers pretend to provide “protection”
All the while they make use of fear to convince you to pay for services that you don’t need
What to Watch Out For.
Whatever form of online extortion you’re facing, remember this: don’t panic, and don’t give into the threats.
Take a deep breath. Assess the situation. And follow these steps on what to do if you are being extorted online:
Don’t pay the ransom. It may further encourage the extorter. And doesn’t guarantee they’ll leave you alone or that your data will not get leaked.
Keep all communications with the extorter. and don’t delete any emails, texts, or other evidence of threats. These show proof against the scammer if brought into law enforcement.
Secure your accounts or devices. Find out what they have. This could go a long way in knowing how they gained access.
Is Extortion A Crime?
Extortion is a crime. Weather its blackmail, embarrassing details or other online scams. You you have the right to take action.
File an initial report with law enforcement
The first thing to do is always to report the crime to the authorities. Local police or a cybercrime unit. They can help investigate and may even be able to track down the perpetrator. The more details you share, the better.
Work with Cyber Security Experts
If it involves hacking, data breaches, or any kind of digital manipulation. Then cybersecurity experts such as Digital Investigation are your best bet. We assess and trace the origin of such extortion and block further attempts.
Work with an Attorney.
It’s better to have an attorney help you with the legal complexities of extortion. Especially if the person threatening is demanding money.
Let Digital Investigations Help You End Your Online Extortion Nightmare.
Now that you know what to do if you are being extorted online, reach out for help immediately, don’t face this alone. Our skilled professionals will put an end to the harassment. Within 24 hours. We’ll track down the perpetrators, and assist you in taking steps to prevent further abuse.
At Digital Investigations, we specialize in helping victims regain control from extortion. Were ready to provide a thorough investigation of your case.
Call 800-849-6515 today for your free consultation.
Where we’ll go over the nature of your case, identify the best course of action, and give you a clear path forward. We’re here to help you put an end to your online extortion nightmare.
