How to Deal with Blackmail on Instagram?

No one likes to be blackmailed. And no one wants to think that it could happen to them. But the truth is, anyone can be a victim of blackmail. Even if you’re careful about what you post on social media, there’s always a possibility that someone could use something against you. So, what do you do if you find yourself in this situation? Here are some tips on how to deal with blackmail on Instagram.

What is an Instagram Blackmail Scam?

Essentially, an Instagram blackmail scam involves manipulating and coercing another individual into sharing important information or personal content in order to blackmail them. This scam is also known as sextortion and is becoming rampant on Instagram and other social media platforms. The idea of this scam is to lure potential victims into a conversation by disguising one’s self as an attractive woman or man. When scammers have someone intrigued, they use their victim’s public information to establish a connection with him or her. The idea of sharing information or exchanging content can happen fairly quickly or can happen after a span of days of communication. Once scammers have obtained content they can use against their victim, a whirlwind of threats and harassment starts and will not end until they are given a ridiculous amount of money or whatever they are demanding.

How To Deal with Blackmail on Instagram?

Trying to figure out how to deal with online blackmail on Instagram can be extremely stressful and traumatic for victims especially if they are facing this abuse on their own. The most common scare tactic blackmailers use is isolating their victims and scaring them into believing their lives will be over if their loved ones and the public find out about their secrets. This is why it is so important for victims to tell someone what they are going through. Most victims of blackmail are too afraid or embarrassed to seek help, which only benefits the abuser in the long run. The best way to deal with sextortion is to reach out to a trusted friend or family member to get support and alert authorities as soon as it happens. We also recommend reaching out to support groups that can help victims of blackmail and exploitation deal with the trauma. · National Organization for Victim Assistance (NOVA) o https://www.trynova.org/help-for-crime-victims/ · Crash Override o http://www.crashoverridenetwork.com/ · Cyber Civil Rights Initiative o https://cybercivilrights.org/ · The Cybersmile Foundation o https://www.cybersmile.org/

What Should I Do If I’m Being Blackmailed?

If you are being blackmailed it’s important to act fast! The longer you wait to reach out for help, the worse the blackmail can get. Here are some tips we recommend taking if you are faced with blackmail on Instagram. · Never pay your blackmailer or give in to their demands! · Document all communication you have with your blackmailer for evidence. · Update and implement privacy settings on your Instagram account and other social accounts. · Report the blackmail to Instagram. · Talk to a trusted friend or family member so you have some support. · Alert the police and make a report. · Seek help from blackmail experts who can provide extra help in ending the blackmail. Conclusions Dealing with blackmail can be a difficult and scary situation. But it’s important to remember that you are not alone and there are people who can help you through this tough time. If you find yourself being blackmailed on Instagram, take a deep breath and follow these steps so that you can safely resolve the situation and get the support you need to overcome this terrible cybercrime. Contact our sextortion helpline