Scams · 5 min read

Sextortion: what to do if someone threatens to share your photos

Short answer

Stop responding, do not pay, save the evidence, and report it. Paying almost never ends the threats; it marks you as someone who pays. You can block images from being shared on major platforms using StopNCII.org (adults) or Take It Down (if you were under 18).

Right now

  1. Stop replying. Do not negotiate or argue.
  2. Do not pay. The FBI advises against paying; it rarely stops the demands.
  3. Screenshot everything: the profile, usernames, messages, payment requests and any account details.
  4. Then block the account and report it to the platform.
  5. Report it to the FBI at IC3.gov or your local FBI field office. The FBI sextortion page explains the process.
Find out who is behind the account

Private search. They are never notified.

Stop the images from spreading

  • If you are an adult: StopNCII.org creates a digital fingerprint (hash) of the image on your own device and shares only the hash with participating platforms, so they can block uploads. The image itself never leaves your phone.
  • If the image was taken when you were under 18: use Take It Down from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Tell a trusted adult; you are not in trouble.

You are not alone

The FTC reported sextortion complaints rose more than eightfold over three years, with people aged 18 to 29 most likely to report it. It happens to a lot of people, it is a crime against you, and it is not your fault. If you are struggling, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) any time.

Questions

Should I pay a sextortion scammer?

No. Paying usually leads to more demands. Stop responding, save evidence, block and report.

Will they really post my photos?

Many never do, because their goal is money, not exposure. Using StopNCII.org or Take It Down helps block the images on major platforms in case they try.

Know who you are talking to

Search a name or phone number to see public profiles and photos before you meet.

Sources

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Published 2026-10-28 by the TrueSearch Safety Team. This guide is general information, not legal advice. In an emergency call 911.

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