The Police Beat
What are Sextortion Scams?

Fairfax County Police Dept

Investigators from our Financial Crimes Online Reporting (FiCOR) unit continue to identify local and national scams. Investigators want community members to be aware of sextortion scams that have been reported throughout the county.

These scams involve sending threatening messages, claiming to have gained access to your computer or devices and accusing you of inappropriate online activity.  The scammers threaten to share compromising videos and screenshots with your contacts unless you pay financially.  At times, downloaded photographs of the victim’s home are used to intimidate the victim. These photographs are usually found online.

How Do I Avoid this Scam?

  • Be Cautious with Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive information, such as explicit photos or personal details, with anyone online. Always think twice before sending anything that could be used against you.

  • Never Send Money to Strangers: Be extremely cautious about sending money, including Bitcoin, to anyone you don’t know personally. Scammers often request payment in cryptocurrency due to its anonymity.

  • Use Strong Privacy Settings: Adjust the privacy settings on your social media accounts and online platforms. Limit who can see your posts and profiles, and only accept friend requests from people you know.

  • Be Skeptical of Strangers: Be wary of unsolicited messages or friend requests from unknown users. Scammers often pose as someone else to gain your trust before attempting to extort you.

  • Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the tactics used by scammers and share this knowledge with friends and family. Awareness is key to prevention in the fight against sextortion.

  • Report Suspicious Activity: If you receive threatening messages or feel uncomfortable about someone’s behavior online, report it to the platform and, if necessary, to local authorities.

If you suspect a scam or have fallen victim to one in Fairfax County, report it to FCPD’s Financial Crimes Unit through our online portal at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/police/HowDoI/FinancialCrimes

If you are unable to file a report on the computer, call our non-emergency line at 703-691-2131 to have an officer assist you with making a FiCOR report.

Join us on Neighbors by Ring at https://ring.com/neighbors

A place where you can connect with your neighbors, see what’s happening in your neighborhood and share any available surveillance footage with our department.  

 

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