Preventing Sextortion: Empowering Individuals and Families

Many clients come to us after their intimate images have been posted or they are being threatened with the release of intimate photographs if they do not pay an extortion fee. This is commonly referred to as sextortion. While we are well-equipped to assist in these situations, our goal is to empower people and families with the tools to help prevent sextortion in the first place.

The Digital Age and the Risks of Sharing Intimate Images

As an adult, you probably came of age in the era of Facebook albums with dozens of photos from a crazy night out. With the rise of smartphones, it became common to send nudes to someone you were dating or married to. Now, with nearly 20 years of iPhones, there's greater awareness of the dangers of sending intimate photos and how easily they can spread.

Best Practices for Adults:

• Avoid Sharing Intimate Photos: The safest approach is to not share intimate photographs over the internet at all. No matter how much you trust your partner, you never know if that person will continue to be in your life. Further, many apps are subject to hacking from outside actors. We all recall “Celebgate” in 2014 (I won’t use the cruder nickname for that incident, but if you’re Very Online, you will know it), where many celebrities such as Jennifer Lawrence and Kate Upton had their nude photographs leaked after a phishing attack on their iCloud accounts.
• Use Secure Messaging Apps: If sharing is unavoidable, use ephemeral messaging apps like Signal or encrypted services like WhatsApp, which can provide slightly more protection than less secure apps like Snapchat or Instagram. Nevertheless, when it comes to sending nudes: don’t.

Educating Children About Sextortion

It's vital for parents to discuss the dangers of sextortion and sharing nude photographs with their children. These conversations should be age-appropriate and include general internet safety, reassuring children that they can always turn to a trusted adult for help.

Key Points for Parents:

• Legal Implications: Explain to children under 18 that taking and sending nude photographs can be considered possession and dissemination of child pornography. Jurisdictions are split as to whether children can be charged with this crime, but it often depends on individual prosecutors.
• The Risks of Sharing Photos: Stress that once a photo is sent, they lose control over who sees it. Emphasize that anyone requesting a nude photo is not a true friend and does not have their best interest at heart.
• Dealing with Strangers Online: Warn about online predators who might request personal information or nude images. Explain the common scams and reassure children they can always seek help if they fall victim.

Responding to Sextortion Scenarios

Different situations call for different responses. Options include:

• Ignoring and Blocking the User: Often the simplest solution.
• Cease and Desist Warnings: In more serious cases.
• DMCA Takedown Notices: If images have already been posted.
• Legal Action: Involving law enforcement or lawsuits may be necessary.

Conclusion

Preventing sextortion requires awareness, education, and the right response strategies. By following these guidelines, individuals and families can protect themselves and their loved ones from the threat of sextortion.

Seeking Professional Help

The law is rapidly evolving in this area. For the most current advice and assistance, contact a trusted attorney like Lizett Schreiber, who has years of experience helping victims of crime.

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