Police warn of rising online sexual blackmail

The Cyprus Police report a sharp increase in complaints about cases of online sexual blackmail, known as sextortion. Recently, dozens of citizens have contacted the Cyber Crime Unit after falling victim to such schemes.

According to the police, perpetrators create fake social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, etc.), often posing as young women. They quickly gain the victim's trust and then suggest switching to an intimate video call.

Within minutes of starting the video call, victims receive threatening messages: scammers demand money to prevent the recorded video from being published or sent to the victim’s friends and relatives on social media.

Typically, the transfers are requested via money transfer services to countries in Africa.

The police emphasize that minors are also among the victims.

Police recommendations:

• be especially cautious when communicating online with strangers;
• do not share or show personal or intimate data online;
• do not send money — even a small amount leads to new demands;
• immediately block and report the fake account;
• cease all communication with blackmailers;
• if necessary, temporarily deactivate your account to avoid further threats.

The police urge citizens to report such incidents to law enforcement authorities immediately.