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What to do if…
someone threatens to share intimate images unless you send money

Short answer

Do not pay, and stop engaging with the person. Save the basics (messages/usernames/payment details) and report it—sextortion is a crime, and you deserve support.

Do not do these things

  • Don’t pay “to end it” (it often triggers repeat demands).
  • Don’t negotiate, threaten back, or send more images/information.
  • Don’t delete chats/accounts in a panic before saving the essentials.
  • Don’t click links they send or install anything they suggest.
  • Don’t share or forward any explicit images—especially if there’s any chance someone shown is under 18.

What to do now

  1. Save a minimal record (2–5 minutes, then stop).
    Keep: the account/profile name, the threat, the demand, any payment handles, and timestamps. If you screenshot, focus on the threat/demand/payment details and avoid capturing/redistributing explicit images.
  2. Stop contact, block, and report the account in the app/site.
    Use the platform’s reporting options for extortion/blackmail and intimate-image abuse if available. Blocking is fine after you’ve saved the basics.
  3. If you paid already, stop paying and contact your bank/payment app immediately.
    Ask about stopping further payments, securing your account/cards, and documenting the fraud/blackmail (without assuming recovery is guaranteed).
  4. Secure your accounts to prevent escalation.
    Change passwords for email + affected social accounts, turn on two-factor authentication, and check recovery email/phone settings.
  5. Report it through the main federal cyber reporting channel.
    File a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). If you feel physically unsafe or threatened with immediate harm, call 911. You can also report to your local police department.
  6. If you are under 18 (or anyone shown may be under 18): use child-safety reporting and tools.
    Do not share/forward the image(s). Make a report to NCMEC’s CyberTipline, and use Take It Down (NCMEC) to help remove/limit spread of nude or sexually explicit images/videos taken before age 18.
  7. Tell one safe person what’s happening and ask them to stay with you while you report.
    Pick someone steady (friend, parent/guardian, partner, advocate). The goal is to reduce panic and stop you being isolated by the threat.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to publicly explain anything or confront the person.
  • You do not need to keep checking your phone constantly—make the reports and then take a break.
  • You do not need to make long-term decisions today; focus on stopping escalation.
  • You do not need to pay a for-profit “sextortion help” company in the first hours—start with law enforcement and nonprofit reporting/support channels.

Important reassurance

These threats are designed to create urgency and shame so you comply fast. Many people respond out of panic at first—none of that makes you responsible. The safest path is to stop payments, stop contact, and use real reporting/support channels.

Scope note

This is first-step guidance to stabilise the situation and reduce harm. Next steps (ongoing safety, legal options, broader support) can be handled later, ideally with specialist help.

Important note

This is general information, not legal or clinical advice. If you’re under 18 (or unsure), do not share or forward explicit material and use child-safety reporting/support routes. If you feel in immediate danger, call 911.

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