DETECTIVES from Sale Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) are investigating reports of sexual extortion, or ‘sextortion’ – where victims are blackmailed with the threat of their intimate images being shared online unless the victim meets the perpetrator’s demands.
These demands can be for money, additional intimate images or sexual favours.
Investigators are appealing for public assistance and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
If you are subject to any type of concerning behaviour like this online, police urge you to contact them and discuss the circumstances.
You can speak to police or, if you would prefer, use online forums such as ReportCyber and the eSafety Commissioner, which will assess the report and provide them to police. Even if you do not wish to make a formal report, police can still assist you in seeking further support.
If you receive someone’s intimate images, contact police. Do not share the images further.
Anyone who contacts police will be supported and treated with respect, courtesy and dignity.
Police believe that these matters are under-reported and that can be for a range of reasons, including fear or embarrassment, and sometimes feeling unsure if an offence has occurred or if they will be believed.
Victoria Police say they are committed to investigating these matters and holding offenders to account.
Anyone with knowledge of these incidents and those responsible is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppers.com.au
