How to protect yourself against sextortion email scams

By Elkanah Nyauma

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How to protect yourself against sextortion email scams

Sextortion email scams involve attackers threatening to reveal compromising information unless a ransom is paid. As a result, these scams are increasingly prevalent, preying on individuals’ fears. Consequently, the psychological impact can be significant, causing anxiety and distress for recipients. This article aims to educate readers on sextortion scams and offers practical protection advice.

What is a sextortion email scam?

Sextortion emails typically claim to have hacked the recipient’s device and obtained compromising information. In general, these emails demand payment in cryptocurrency like Bitcoin. Moreover, scammers use fear, urgency, and shame to pressure victims into compliance. Often, they claim to have recorded the victim through their device’s camera, creating a false sense of urgency.

Sextortion email scams
Photo: Excellence IT

Anatomy of a sextortion scam email

Subject Line: Frequently, the subject line is threatening or alarming, grabbing attention and creating a sense of urgency.

Claims of Hacking: The email usually alleges that the scammer accessed the recipient’s device and obtained compromising material.

Technical Jargon: Additionally, scammers use terms like “Trojan virus” and “driver-based software” to sound convincing.

Threats: They outline consequences if demands aren’t met, such as sharing videos with contacts.

Demands for Payment: Often, scammers demand payment in Bitcoin within a short timeframe to add pressure.

Why these scams are effective

These scams are effective because they manipulate victims psychologically. Fear of embarrassment and public exposure is a powerful motivator. Furthermore, the urgency created by a time-limited threat pressures recipients into hasty decisions. Many people lack technical knowledge, which makes them more vulnerable to these scams.

How to respond to sextortion emails

Stay Calm: First and foremost, remember that these claims are usually false and based on fear tactics.

Do Not Pay: Paying the ransom will not resolve the situation and might lead to further demands.

Ignore the Threats: Additionally, do not engage with the scammer or respond to their demands.

Report the Email: Report scams to authorities or platforms, such as your email provider or local cybercrime unit.

Sextortion email scams
Photo: Gedling Eye

Protecting Yourself Online

Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords and use a password manager to store unique passwords for each account.

Enable Two-Factor Authentication: This step adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification.

Keep Software Updated: Regular updates are crucial as they patch vulnerabilities that scammers might exploit.

Be Cautious Online: Avoid visiting suspicious websites or clicking on unknown links, which can be entry points for malware.

Use Antivirus Software: Ensure your antivirus software is updated and run regular scans to detect threats.

Awareness and education are crucial for combating sextortion email scams. By understanding how these scams work, you can reduce your vulnerability. Therefore, taking proactive steps helps create a safer digital environment. Encourage others to stay informed and share this information to spread awareness.

Additional Resources

For online safety and reporting cybercrimes, visit Take Five. Explore digital literacy and security courses at Cybrary. Finally, learn about protecting your privacy online with guides from EFF’s Security Education Companion.

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