They say criminals claim to have compromising video of victim, and demand money to get rid of it... police offer tips on ways to protect yourself
Yet another warning from police of an extortion scam in the Niagara region.
It involves threatening emails in which criminals falsely claim to have video of the victim watching porn online.
The emails also contain personal infomation, including a google street view of your house, all of which can easily be found online by anyone.
To make the claim of the compromising video seem legit, the personal information is shown.
In attempt to extort money, the criminal offers to delete the alleged footage and any trace of you in exchange for money.
Police add the email typically includes a QR code, linked to a cryptocurrency wallet, demanding payment in Bitcoin.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Extortion Scams:
- Safeguard your personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive details such as your address or phone number online. Be cautious about what you post on social media and other platforms.
- Update your passwords: If the scam email includes a password you recognize, ensure it is no longer in use. Change it immediately if necessary.
- Don’t rush: Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. Take your time to assess the situation carefully.
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