PHOTO: Courtesy of WLUK
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) — Emplify Health by Bellin is partnering with the Green Bay Police Department and Green Bay Area Public School District to raise awareness of an online scam known as sextortion.
A recent case in Wisconsin resulted in a teen taking his life, raising the close-to-home profile of the crime.
Sextortion scams typically involve individuals posing as members of the opposite sex, often targeting teenagers and young adults. These scammers engage in conversations with their victims, eventually persuading them to exchange explicit photos or videos.
“Do not send any images or videos to someone you do not know,” said Commander Rick Belanger, Green Bay Police Department. “Sextortion scammers prey on trust—they will intimidate and threaten to make private content public unless specific demands are met. These demands can range from sending more explicit material to paying large sums of money. Protect yourself and report suspicious activity immediately.”
Tiffany Born, a Pediatric Psychologist with Emplify Health by Bellin, has worked with patients who have fallen victim to these scams and are left with feelings of
embarrassment, depression, shame, anxiety and even suicidal ideations.
“Sextortion scams target the most vulnerable and coerce them into feeling like they did something wrong,” noted Born. “Victims often feel like they have no way out of the situation.”
In our area, there are many resources for people who have been scammed or want to protect themselves or their loved ones online. Although sextortion is often associated with teens, individuals of any age or demographic can be targets.
“As educators we are here to partner with parents and guardians to help navigate the ever changing online and social media landscape,” said Green Bay Area Public School District Superintendent Vicki Bayer. “We encourage children to reach out to a trusted adult, whether that is a parent, teacher, counselor, medical professional or law enforcement. We are here to provide support, offer guidance and find answers, without judgment.”
As the digital world grows, so do online scams. Sextortion scams are taking loved ones from their families and leaving many with heavy mental loads. Awareness is key to prevention, and help is available.
The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 and is available to anyone. Just call 9-8-8.
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