Sextortion of children on the rise

Canadian cases of online sex-related extortion — “sextortion” — against children are increasing, following trends in the United States.

U.S. federal officials and advocates are urging educators and parents to help raise awareness at school events.

In sextortion cases, preying adults typically pose on social media as someone younger to coerce victims into sending inappropriate photos or video clips. Once initial images are delivered, the adult threatens to expose them publicly unless the victim sends more explicit pictures.

The Canadian Centre for Child Protection reported that in 2012, the organization received three cases of sextortion cases a month through its Cybertip.ca line. Now, it receives upwards of 15 a month.

Last September, the centre said it saw a spike of 40% in teen sextortion tips in a six-month period.  (more...)

Sextortion of children on the rise