The FBI has issued a public warning that hackers are targeting social media and online accounts to steal sexually explicit images or videos, often with the intention of blackmailing victims or selling the content on dark web marketplaces. This disturbing trend affects not only adults but also children, with cybercriminals using stolen personal information to pressure them into providing more private content through sextortion.
Sextortion is a form of online harassment where attackers threaten to publicly release explicit images and videos unless their demands are met. These threats can come in the form of text messages or emails, often claiming that an account will be disabled if a verification code is not provided or that a password reset link needs to be clicked. The FBI warns that legitimate platforms or services will never request sensitive information from users, so it’s essential to be cautious when receiving such requests.
The consequences of falling victim to sextortion can be severe and long-lasting. Once attackers have access to explicit content, they may share it with other criminals who can use it for further harassment or exploitation. This can lead to a cycle of re-victimization, where the original victim is targeted repeatedly through various means, including stalking or online advertising.
The FBI has also warned that student-athletes are being specifically targeted in these schemes, highlighting the need for coaches, compliance staff, and athletic department leaders to raise awareness within their schools and communities. To protect themselves, users should avoid storing explicit photos or videos on social media accounts or internet-accessible sites. Using complex passwords and enabling multi-factor authentication whenever possible can also help lower the risk of victimization.
It’s worth noting that these attacks are not new; the FBI has previously warned about a massive increase in sextortion complaints and advised victims to stop interacting with attackers immediately and contact law enforcement. Those who have been targeted should be aware that they are not alone, and there are resources available to help them recover from this traumatic experience.
To stay safe online, it’s essential to be vigilant when receiving unsolicited messages or emails. If you’re unsure whether a request is legitimate, err on the side of caution and do not respond. Use strong passwords that don’t include easily accessible information such as names or dates of birth, and enable multi-factor authentication whenever possible. By being mindful of these best practices, we can all help reduce the risk of falling victim to these disturbing online attacks.
The FBI has made it clear that those who engage in sextortion will face severe consequences if caught, with sentences ranging from decades to even life imprisonment. In May, a Canadian man was sentenced to 33 years for targeting over 145 children across the United States in an eight-year-long sextortion scheme. This should serve as a stark reminder of the severity of these crimes and the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.
Source: Bleeping Computer — 2026-08-12