Kamloops RCMP warn public of sending intimate images following sextortion investigations

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops RCMP are warning the public about the dangers of sending explicit, revealing images of themselves following several recent “sextortion” reports.

In a news release Monday (May 9) morning, RCMP say in the last month, officers have investigated at least six reports involving adults and youths who shared intimate images online and were then blackmailed for money to prevent their distribution. Police say there is no evidence to suggest these incidents are related.

“In many of these cases, the fraudster will make contact with the victim via social media and convince them to send a sexual image or perform a sexual act they may be secretly recording,” Cst. Phil Whiles, Kamloops RCMP Sex Crimes Investigator says. “The fraudster then threatens to send the content to others unless the victim sends them money or more content. We understand it may be uncomfortable for some adults to discuss with their teenagers, but it’s an important discussion to have in order to help prevent the discomfort and fear that can follow after the images have already been sent.”

RCMP say they’re concerned some of the reports involved teenagers.