ERIN – Police are urging residents to be safe online after a local youth was victimized by a “sextortion” scam.
Wellington County OPP officials say they were contacted on April 7 about an incident involving a young person from Erin.
“The young victim was contacted by an unknown person posing as a youth on the social media app, TikTok,” police stated in a press release.
“The suspect and the victim exchanged intimate images. The suspect then threatened to distribute the intimate images unless the victim sent money.
“The victim did not send any money and later reported the activity to a parent.”
Police are reminding residents to not engage in conversations with strangers and to not share intimate images online.
“If something similar should happen to you, immediately stop all communication with the person and do not comply with the threats,” police stated.
“Contact police who can provide advice on the next steps to take.
“Also, keep copies of the messages and information such as the username, social media account, etc.”
For more information on frauds, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at antifraudcentre.ca.
Anyone with information about this incident can contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip at csgw.tips. Top providers may be eligible for a reward of up to $2,000.
