I am being extorted, what should i not do?
Every extortion situation is different and each one deserves specialized attention to lead a victim to safe harbor. There are, however, some general rules that you should avoid if you are the target of a blackmail or extortion scheme:
Generally, never pay an extortionist or blackmailer.
Once you pay an extortionist, they will not go away. Instead, they are likely to see you as a target and continue to pursue you. Usually, the initial demand is increased and coupled with a promise that this would be the last time that money will be requested. This is almost always a lie. Demands will continue to be made of the victim.
Do not send private or personally identifying information to strangers.
Extortionists and blackmailers will seek to obtain every piece of information that they can use to extort you. This will include any personally identifying information, including your place of employment, residence, familial relationships, and all other general information. While some of this information will be available online, the more you can limit exposing personal information to strangers, the more you limit your blackmail and extortion exposure.
Do not permit minors to use dating sites.
If you have children, or are responsible for the well-being of a minor, it is important that you both educate your minor on online extortion schemes as well as monitor their internet usage for the unauthorized use of dating sites. Minors are increasingly becoming victims to extortion schemes, resulting in a vicious cycle where they are unable to disclose their predicament to adults and are pressured by the extortionist to provide money. This has resulted in the suicide of multiple minors, and should be avoided at all costs.
If you are a victim of an extortion scheme, contact us now for your free case review.
