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uk Sexual violence & highly sensitive situations threatened to post nudes • threat to share intimate images • sextortion threat • revenge porn threat • blackmail with explicit photos • intimate images leaked threat • doxxing with explicit content • using my name and handles • threatened to tag my accounts • threatened to expose me online • coercion with sexual images • deepfake porn threat • nude leak blackmail • explicit video leak threat • online sexual harassment threat • threatened to send to friends • someone says they have my nudes • threatened to post on social media

What to do if…
someone claims they will post explicit content about you using your name and social media handles

Short answer

Pause, don’t negotiate, and start documenting and reporting the threat through official channels (platform reports + specialist support). If you’re in immediate danger or being stalked right now, call 999.

Do not do these things

  • Do not pay, send more images, or offer anything to “prove” you’re compliant (it often escalates demands).
  • Do not keep the conversation going to “calm them down” once you’ve captured enough evidence to report.
  • Do not publicly argue with them or post “call-out” threads while you’re panicked (it can spread the threat further).
  • Do not click unknown links, open files, or install apps they send (could be account takeover/malware).
  • Do not delete everything immediately if you might want to report later (you may need the messages as proof).
  • Do not assume it’s “not serious” because they haven’t posted yet—treat it as a credible threat until you’ve reported it.

What to do now

  1. Get to a safer, steadier pause. If you feel physically unsafe, being followed, or threatened in person, call 999. If it’s not an emergency but you’re at risk, consider moving to a place with other people and letting someone you trust know what’s happening.
  2. Capture the threat clearly (then stop engaging). Take screenshots showing usernames, profile links, dates/times, the exact threat, and any payment/ultimatum. If safe, copy the message text into a note. Then mute/block (after you’ve captured enough to identify them).
  3. Lock down your accounts for “spread prevention” (10–15 minutes, not a full overhaul).
    • Set profiles to private where possible.
    • Turn off or restrict tagging/mentions, DMs from strangers, and commenting.
    • Remove phone/email visibility; hide follower/following lists if your platform allows.
    • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) and change your password if you suspect compromise.
    • Sign out of other sessions/devices and remove any suspicious connected apps/services (where the platform provides this).
  4. Report the threat inside the platform(s) immediately. Use the in-app reporting tools for blackmail / intimate image abuse / harassment. Save any report confirmation emails or reference numbers.
  5. Get specialist help to handle takedowns and next steps. Contact the Revenge Porn Helpline (UK adults 18+) for confidential guidance and support with reporting and removal options, including threats to share.
  6. Consider reporting (your choice). Threats to share intimate images are treated seriously. If you want to report:
    • If urgent risk: 999
    • Otherwise: 101 (or your local police force’s online reporting)
    • If you want to report anonymously: Crimestoppers 0800 555 111
    • Share the screenshots, usernames, links, and any payment details.
  7. If you’re under 18 (or the images were taken when you were under 18): report to the CEOP Safety Centre and get a trusted adult involved if possible. This is treated as child sexual abuse/exploitation.
  8. Use a “do-not-share” protection tool if you have the image/video. If the threat involves images you possess (or can safely access), consider using StopNCII.org to create a digital fingerprint that participating platforms can use to block re-uploads.

(Optional, only if you may want to report later: keep the messages, usernames, and links somewhere safe. If you’re worried they’ll vanish, save screenshots and the profile URLs.)

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to go public, confront them, or “clear your name.”
  • You do not need to do a full internet search for yourself tonight (it can spike panic and doesn’t help first steps).
  • You do not need to write a perfect statement to friends/employer immediately.
  • You do not need to gather “proof” of who the person is—focus on reporting and containment.

Important reassurance

This kind of threat is designed to trigger panic and rushed decisions. Freezing, shaking, feeling sick, or wanting to bargain is a normal stress response. You can slow this down: document, lock down, report, and bring in support.

Scope note

These are first steps to reduce immediate harm, preserve options, and connect you to the right support. Longer-term choices (legal routes, broader reputation management, ongoing safety planning) can come later with specialist help.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. If you feel at immediate risk, call 999. You deserve support, and you’re allowed to choose what you do next—nothing here requires you to report if you’re not ready.

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