SOCIAL media apps have made it easier for people to communicate and share ideas.
As much as this is a huge milestone for the advancement of digital media, other users are opportunistic and use various platforms to scam people.
In June, the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) launched a public awareness campaign, warning internet users of a dramatic increase in digital extortion threats.
According to the police, sextortion is fast becoming a trend where young victims are being targeted on social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp. This involves extorting money or sexual favours from someone by threatening to reveal evidence of their sexual activity. It is considered as revenge porn, officially a crime in Mzansi with severe fines and jail time. Police say predators often reach out to young people using a profile photo of an attractive person. Through manipulation, they convince them to produce an explicit video or image.
Threats then follow, where scammers ask for money or they blackmail you.
How to avoid being a victim:
- Never share explicit images or video material with anyone.
- Check the privacy and security settings. If your social media or internet accounts are open to everyone, a predator has access to information about you.
- Block and ignore messages from strangers.
- ¦ Be aware that people can pretend to be anyone online.
- Report suspicious behaviour on any app you use.
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