Understanding and Preventing the Threat of Sextortion

Sextortion is when an abuser uses sexual images to blackmail and threaten someone if they don’t give that person what they want - which may be more explicit or abusive images, requests to send money, or other harmful requests. This threat is rapidly growing at alarming rates. We know this topic is difficult, but understanding it is crucial for protecting young people. The young people in our lives might not recognize the effects of sextortion and other online harms on their mental health They may: • Be unsure of who to go to for help • Be afraid to get help due to fear and shame • Feel isolated, desperate and like there is no way out of their situation • They may lose all hope and consider self-harm or suicide • They will need your love, support, and guidance The progression of threats is extremely rapid—often starting within hours of first contact—and designed to pressure children to pay before they have time to either process these threats or seek support. Join us for this informative webinar where we’ll discuss what you need to know about sextortion and give you resources to confidently help someone respond to online threats and heal from trauma.