THE NUMBER OF TEENAGERS who are extorted online after post revealing images of themselves on the internet is increasing, say US authorities.
Teens who flash body parts on internet chatrooms are being contacted by people threatening to share the images among their friends if they don’t send more videos and images.
AP outlines a number of recent cases being investigated by federal prosecutors in America.
In February, Anthony Stancl was sentenced to 15 years in prison for extorting male classmates. Stancl, who was 18 at the time, had tricked the teens by posing as a girl on Facebook.
After they had send explicit photos, Stancl threatened to post the photos online unless they engaged in sexual activity with him.
TV and online campaigns encouraging teens to “think before you post” have been launched to try to increase awareness of the risks of exploitation:
A blend of sun and clouds
Max: 16 °C
Min: 7 °C
A morning shower; clouds break for sun
Max: 14 °C
Min: 4 °C
Mostly cloudy, showers around; cooler
Max: 11 °C
Min: 4 °C
