Two men in Fareham targeted by 'sextortion' scammers using Facebook and Kik messenger services

POLICE have warned residents to be careful who they talk to online after two young men in Fareham were targeted by ‘sextortion’ scammers.
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Sextortion occurs when a victim is lured to perform sexual acts online – while unknowingly being recorded as a form of blackmail for criminals.

Police responded to two separate reports of the crime targeting ‘young men’ – aged between 16 and 20 - in Fareham on Friday, November 27, and Sunday, November 29.

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A Facebook post from Fareham Police reported a ‘rise’ in incidents compared to a similar period last year.

Police have been called to two reports of sextortion in Fareham. Stock picture: Habibur RahmanPolice have been called to two reports of sextortion in Fareham. Stock picture: Habibur Rahman
Police have been called to two reports of sextortion in Fareham. Stock picture: Habibur Rahman

A spokesman from Hampshire Constabulary said: ‘In the most recent incidents, messaging apps such as Kik and Facebook messenger were used.

‘(We’re) not aware of a pattern emerging – typically these sorts of offences are reported more sporadically.’

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The police advice people to be aware of the risks when sending messages or footage that could be used as blackmail.

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When sending photos or videos containing nudity, people should consider ensuring that their face and their surroundings can not be identified.

The post from Fareham Police added: ‘In a majority of cases the motive is money, but can also involve other crimes.

‘If demands are not met, offenders threaten to upload the recording to the internet and send to the victims’ friends and/or family.

‘The victim of these are most likely to be young males aged around 16 to 20.

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‘Therefore please share this advice with...friends or family.’

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