An area law-enforcement agency is warning residents of a scam.
According to a post on its Facebook page, the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office has received three reports involving the latest scam…sextortion. The scam reportedly seems to be targeting men and women on social media such as, Facebook, Youtube and dating sites, and then progressing to the use of Skype for video chatting.
Authorities say sextortion is a form of blackmail, during which the victim is coaxed into exposing himself/herself during a skype conversation with a newly-friended man or woman who appears to be interested in video sex. The solicitor reportedly manipulates the victim to include video of his/her face during their video exchange. The victim is later advised that the event was recorded and asked to pay up to $5,000 or more or the video will be released publicly or sent to a list of friends.
Authorities say do not pay. However, many victims who have paid have continued to get more demands for higher amounts of money. In some cases, after the demands have been met, the offenders still will post the explicit videos.
To avoid falling prey to a sextortionist, authorities say never send compromising photos or videos of yourself to anyone, whether you know them or think you know them.
If you believe you have been the victim of this or any scam, contact the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office or your local police department.