I Am Being Blackmailed on WhatsApp - What Can I Do?
WhatsApp is hugely popular, with more than 2 billion users around the world. If only 1% of monthly active users were blackmailed on-platform, that's 20 million victims.
And the real, specific figures might be higher. Most blackmail goes unreported because of shame, fear that the threats will be acted upon, or not knowing where to turn for help.
The trauma of blackmail results in anxiety, depression and lost productivity. It can throw careers and relationships off track. In some areas, people get driven to suicide on account of blackmail.
This guide details what to do if you find yourself as a WhatsApp blackmail victim.
Never Engage with the Blackmailer
The initial instinct might be to beg the blackmailer, but that can exacerbate the issue. Replying confirms your number is active, and that you’re paying attention.
Instead, do not respond. Blackmail works on fear and desperation. When you abstain, you take back power. Silence conveys the message that you are not going to be manipulated.
Do Not Pay the Blackmailer
You might feel tempted to pay the blackmailer, but this is not the best solution for a number of reasons:
· It emboldens the blackmailer - Paying tells them their tactics are working and they will probably ask for more money. Their threats may never end.
· Uncertain assurances - Even after paying, you do not know if the blackmailer would keep their promise and not publish the information anyway. In most circumstances, the information will not be deleted.
As hard as it must be, shutting down communication and payment is key.
Prepare Documentation of the WhatsApp Messages, Number, and Email
Ensure that you take screenshots of the WhatsApp messages for further proceedings before you block the blackmailer. Make sure to capture the phone number, along with any email addresses the blackmailer used to contact you.
This documentation may assist in any investigation of the blackmailer. Store the screenshots outside of WhatsApp if you can, such as in a secure photo album or emailed to yourself. That ensures you’ll still have the records if the messages disappear.
If You Cannot Retain an Attorney or Legal Representation, Block the Contact on WhatsApp
Consider consulting a lawyer who specializes in blackmail to help you navigate making the best move. If you don’t have the money to retain a lawyer, consider blocking the blackmailer in WhatsApp.
To block a contact:
· Open the chat with the blackmailer
· Tap the contact’s name at the top
· Select Block Contact
This will ensure that the blackmailer will not reach you again on the platform. They won’t see your online status and won’t see any new messages you share in common chats.
Blocking puts distance from the emotional duress and halts continued harassment. It also starts setting boundaries with the blackmailer.
Report the Contact On WhatsApp
Finally, you may consider reporting the contact within WhatsApp. Of course, consider the ramifications of exacerbating your issue by angering the blackmailer. With that said, blackmail is not tolerated on WhatsApp and they take these kinds of reports seriously.
To report a contact:
1. Go to the blackmailer's chat
2. Tap on the contact's name
3. Scroll down & tap on Report Contact
4. Complete the prompts to submit a report to WhatsApp
If found a policy violation the blackmailer can be banned from using WhatsApp by reporting. It helps WhatsApp pick up unsafe accounts who are engaged in criminal activities as well.
