Do Facebook Sextortionists Follow Through? Unveiling the Truth

We’ve all seen it on our newsfeeds or read about it in the papers: a sickening new form of cyber extortion known as Facebook sextortion. This dangerous form of blackmail is, unfortunately, becoming increasingly popular amongst online criminals. Victims constantly seeking answers to questions such as “Do Facebook sextortionists follow through?”  In this blog post, we will be digging into the depths of Facebook sextortion, exploring why it is so prevalent today.

The Psychology of Sextortionists

It is essential to understand the psychology behind sextortionists. These criminals’ prey on vulnerable individuals online. They often use fear as a tool to extort money from their victims, threatening to share their intimate content with friends and family publicly. In many cases, sextortionists simply look for an easy payout – they know their victims will do anything to avoid humiliation and embarrassment. So why do these criminals commit these dangerous crimes like sextortion? Well, we based it on the various factors below:

1. Biological factors could play a role in creating a predisposition towards sextortion. For example, studies have found that some individuals with certain brain trauma or irregularities may be more prone to aggressive or criminal behavior. This could explain why some individuals turn to sextortion to make easy money.
2. Sociological factors may also contribute to the rise of sextortion. For instance, our increasingly digital world has created a new avenue for criminals to exploit vulnerable individuals. Additionally, the pervasive influence of social media and other online platforms has created an environment where privacy is scarce, further fueling the proliferation of sextortion crimes. Finally, the environment they are located. Most of the time, these criminals operate out of 3rd world countries where income can be scarcely available.
3. Psychological factors must also be considered in understanding the psychology of sextortionists. Studies suggest that many offenders who engage in sextortion have a history of related criminal behavior, such as harassment or stalking. Furthermore, many extortionists exhibit narcissistic and sociopathic tendencies, using their victims like pawns in a twisted game of power and control.

By analyzing the biological, sociological, and psychological factors that influence these criminal’s behavior, we can develop more effective strategies to detect, report, and bring them to justice.

Do Facebook Sextortionists Follow Through?

Generally speaking, it can be hard to tell whether your sextortionist will follow through or not. What we do know is that they will likely continue to blackmail you even if you do give them money or other forms of compensation. Most of the time, giving in to the demands causes the criminal to be more confident in further digging their hold or financial grip on their victims. We suggest reporting the crime to the authorities instead and seeking help from a professional. You can report sextortion directly to Facebook, your local police station, and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Real-Life Cases and Statistics

According to the 2020 Internet Crime Report, over 790 thousand complaints were made of cyber-crimes, and losses were reported at $4.2 billion; among the top three was sextortion. Cases alike are popping up nationally, covering the damages and aftermath of this terrifying crime. Listed below is a real-life case example of the crime sextortion.

Case 1: Gavin was your average 17-year-old teen. After receiving Instagram messages from an account posing as a teenage girl, flirty conversation and elicit pictures were exchanged. Once the content was sent to the scammer, the demands for money started, with aggressive threats of his images to be distributed unless he paid up. Gavin feeling like he had nowhere to turn, took his life a half hour later. Gavin’s case is still ongoing, with one question remaining, who did this? Gavin’s dad leads the way with a new sextortion bill following his son’s suicide.

This is just one of the many cases of sextortion across the globe. As more and more victims speak out about the crimes committed against them, the more we can fight back against these cyber terrorizers. Always report any incidents of sextortion to local law enforcement and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. If you or someone you know needs help reporting sextortion, contact a trusted agent at Digital Forensics today; we are available 24/7 with a sextortion helpline. Do not face this threat alone.

Conclusion

While not all sextortionists will follow through on their threats, it is crucial to be cautious of your online activity and seek help if you become a victim. Remember, there are people who can assist you in overcoming this traumatic experience. If you are concerned about your immediate safety or having suicidal thoughts, contact the police or reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Hotline.

If you find yourself asking, “Do Facebook sextortionists still follow through?” contact an agent at Digital Forensics for further assistance. Our agents work around the clock and are available to handle your case as discreetly as possible. Always remember you are not alone; reach out for help today.