Sextortion Prevention

What sextortion prevention is, who it affects, and what a child should learn — a free entry from the Digital Guardians Threat Dictionary.

Target age range: 12–16 years (teens). Sextortion predominantly targets adolescents who may share images. This module is geared toward middle-schoolers and high-schoolers learning to protect their privacy and sexuality online.

Learning objective: Learners will understand what sextortion is, why it’s dangerous, and how to avoid becoming a victim. They will learn to set personal boundaries (e.g. never sending intimate images), recognize grooming tactics, and know exactly what to do (and who to tell) if sextortion occurs. By the end, children will feel empowered to refuse requests, seek help without shame, and understand that victims are never at fault.

Threat definition

Sextortion is a form of online sexual blackmail. It occurs when someone (often posing as a peer) tricks a child into sending explicit photos or videos, then threatens to release those images unless the child complies with further demands (more images, sexual acts, or even money). For instance, a stranger met in a chat room might earn a teen’s trust, then ask for private photos. Once the teen sends them, the predator might demand cryptocurrency or say “send more or I’ll share these with your family.” The FBI warns that sextortion can happen on any app or game where people meet and chat, and it often ends with predators threatening violence or public humiliation to force compliance. Victims usually feel intense shame, fear, and confusion – sadly these feelings often stop them from telling anyone. Importantly, it’s not the victim’s fault. Children need to know that even smart kids can be tricked, and help is available.

The full chapter is in Pillar 2: Social Pressure, Lures & Exploitation Prevention and the Complete Edition.