Police warn public after number of NI men targeted in sextortion scam

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has issued an urgent warning to the public following four separate reports of sextortion – a form of online blackmail involving intimate or sexual material – all received on the same day, Saturday 24 May.

All four victims were men from the Belfast area who had been targeted by criminals operating behind fake online identities.

Detective Inspector Karen Hamill, speaking on behalf of the PSNI, said:

“Here, innocent people have been cajoled into sharing intimate images and subsequently blackmailed.”

She elaborated on the typical pattern of these scams:

“Typically, a person uses a false identity to befriend a victim via social media. The exchange may start with flirting or flattery, but ends with the victim coaxed into sending intimate images or performing sexual acts online, unwittingly in front of a camera.

“Behind the fake and attractive guise, there’s a criminal. These people are often part of sophisticated and organised crime groups, mostly based overseas. They extort their victims by threatening to share those images or recordings unless demands for money are met.”

Young Men Most at Risk

While anyone can fall victim to sextortion, Detective Inspector Hamill highlighted that the majority of cases involve young men:

“While we know that sextortion can affect anyone, the majority of victims are young men, aged between 18 and 23.”

The emotional toll on victims can be devastating.

“Innocent people are left feeling humiliated and distraught, but the important message is that victims shouldn’t let embarrassment stop them from reporting what’s happened.”

She also offered practical guidance:

“My message, in the first instance, is to be on your guard. Please be aware of the risks of sharing intimate images online, and if someone is pushing you to do this, then alarm bells should be ringing.

“But people do make mistakes, no one is infallible, and if you’ve been a victim of sextortion, then you’re certainly not alone.

“Don’t panic; don’t respond to demands; and don’t enter into further communication. If you can, confide in a trusted friend or family member, and please contact officers immediately on 101.”

A Widespread Problem

Although recent statistics show a slight decline in monthly reports, sextortion remains a significant issue.

At its peak in 2023, PSNI received approximately 70 reports per month. Through preventative campaigns and public awareness, this figure dropped to an average of 45 per month in 2024/2025 – ranging from 25 to 60 cases monthly.

The PSNI reiterates that males of all ages have been affected and continue to be targeted.

Online Safety Advice

The PSNI has published several recommendations to help prevent online exploitation:

• Do not allow yourself to be lured or pushed into compromising situations. Trust your instincts and end any interaction that makes you uncomfortable.

  
  

• Always remember: what goes online may stay online permanently.

• Be cautious about accepting friend requests from strangers on social media.

• Regularly update the privacy settings on your accounts. Ensure only people you know can view your profile and avoid sharing sensitive or private information.

For more detailed advice and links to support organisations, visit: www.psni.police.uk/sextortion