Understanding Sextortion: A Call to Action for Men in Ontario

I read this article this morning. So-called "sextorters" are targeting young guys online. They pose as girls, coaxing these young men into sharing nude photos. Then, they threaten to share those photos with others if they are not paid. This creates an incredibly stressful situation, often leading to panic. Tragically, some guys have even taken their own lives over this.

That makes me both sad and angry.

The Reality of Sextortion

This issue, like many online scams, is not something that can be easily stopped. However, we can make it less effective. It only works because of the intense embarrassment and shame that accompany the thought of others seeing those photos. If we can't stop people, often in foreign countries, from targeting young guys in this country—83% of the targeted are guys—we can stop them from being effective. How?

Support Each Other

Don't judge the guy who shared the photo of himself. Make it known that you wouldn't judge.

Guys, tell your friends to be careful online. Encourage them to try to verify who they're chatting with via video call before sharing photos. They should also use a disappearing photos option that blocks screenshots, like the "1" option in WhatsApp. Apparently, 63% of reported incidents happen on Instagram or Snapchat.

Let your friends know that if they ever get caught in this trap, you'd totally understand. Empathize with them, and stand together against the disgusting people trying to take advantage of them. Defend them against anyone who gives them a hard time.

What to Do If You Receive a Photo

If you receive such a photo of someone you know, just delete it. Reach out to your friend and say, "Hey, whatever's going on, don't worry about it. After some time passes, no one will care." Be there to talk. Use humour that fits your friendship vibe: that the idiot thought you would judge him—so stupid. Whatever can help your friend feel more comfortable is valuable.

Under 18? Know Your Rights

If you're under 18 and someone threatens to share a nude photo of you, tell them that you are in Canada and under 18 years of age. Let them know you will report them for possessing and distributing child pornography. The penalties in Canada are up to 10 years in prison for possessing and up to 14 years for distributing. Ask them where they are and what the penalty is in their country. Inform them that it's illegal in 118 countries. If they are scamming from Nigeria, as the CBC article mentioned, it is illegal there.

Canadian Criminal Code: article 163.1 definition of child pornography

Reporting the Incident

If you encountered the person in a dating or social media app, use a "report" feature to report them.

Report the incident to cybertip! ca, Canada's National Tipline for Reporting the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children. According to their website, they receive an average of six reports a day; you're not alone.

Seeking Help

Contact us. We'll set up a video call over Zoom so we can talk. Your call will be confidential, and it will be free.

Guys, take care of each other. Let's ensure that something like the tragedy in the news today never happens again.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is struggling, here's where to look for help:

• Canada's Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 988.

• Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868. Text 686868. Live chat counselling on the website.

• Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention: Find a 24-hour crisis centre.

• This guide from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health outlines how to talk about suicide with someone you're worried about.

  
  
  
  

Video on LinkedIn by Toronto Police Service:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/toronto-police-service_sextortion-is-a-serious-issue-if-someone-activity-7384948693109493760-vCZS?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAAaXbYB4VVMuKAYljWT4XkqpxqmIDIrCe0