Perth County OPP report a resident did not fall for a sextortion scam, but instead called police.
OPP say an adult was communicating with an unknown person on a social media platform and received an intimate image from the suspect. The victim was asked to sent one as well, and did. That's when the suspect then threatened to distribute the intimate images of the victim publicly if the victim did not send $500. The victim contacted police immediately, and no money was lost.
The Perth County OPP reminds residents to follow safe internet practices, which means avoiding conversations with strangers, and never sharing intimate images online.
If something similar should happen to you, immediately stop all communication with the person and do not comply with the threats. Instead, contact police who can provide advice on the next steps to take. Also, take screenshots, and keep copies of the messages and information such as the username, social media account etc.
For more information on frauds, you can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at http://www.antifraudcentre.ca. For more information about online safety, especially for children and teens, visit Canadian Centre for Child Protection or Don't Get Sextorted