Definition
Where a perpetrator threatens to expose sexually compromising information (such as sexually explicit private images or videos of the victim) unless the victim meets certain demands.
Background
Sextortion involves the threat of distributing private, sensitive, or sexual images or information about an individual without their consent, often for the purpose of obtaining more images, sexual favours, or financial gain. This form of digital blackmail leverages the victim’s fear of public exposure or personal embarrassment.
The activity often begins on social media, then is moved to a separate chat application or platform.
See also: NCII (Non-Consensual Intimate Imagery)
Challenges
Content moderators face multiple challenges in addressing sextortion. Identifying sextortion attempts can be complex, as communications may occur in private messages or through encrypted channels. Moderating content related to sextortion requires handling highly sensitive personal information and images, necessitating strict privacy controls. Providing support and resources to victims of sextortion is crucial, yet challenging, as moderators must balance intervention with respect for the victim’s privacy and autonomy.
Sextortion spans various legal jurisdictions, complicating the enforcement of policies and cooperation with law enforcement.
Ethical Concerns
Be careful to not inadvertently blame or further victimise the individuals affected. Maintaining the confidentiality and privacy of victims who report sextortion or are discovered through moderation activities is of the highest importance.
Reporting Sextortion
(For sextortion involving minors, see CSEA)
- United Kingdom: Local police call 101, forward any malicious email to report@phishing.gov.uk
- United States: 1-800-CALL-FBI or https://tips.fbi.gov
Example Rule
Sextortion, or the threat to share private images or information to coerce individuals, is strictly prohibited.
Discussion
Discuss this label in the Sextortion forum.
