Sextortion via WhatsApp Video Calls: How to Stay Safe from this Growing Threat

In today’s hyper-connected world, social media and instant messaging apps have become an integral part of our lives. However, with convenience comes risk. One of the latest and most dangerous cyber threats is sextortion via WhatsApp video calls — a scheme that has left many victims feeling helpless and trapped.

Let’s dive into what sextortion is, how it works, and, most importantly, how you can protect yourself.

What is Sextortion?

Sextortion is a form of blackmail where cybercriminals trick victims into engaging in intimate activities online and then threaten to expose compromising footage unless a ransom is paid.
In recent months, WhatsApp has become a common platform for this scam due to its wide user base and end-to-end encryption, which makes it difficult for authorities to monitor these activities.

How Does Sextortion via WhatsApp Video Calls Work?

The process is usually simple but highly deceptive. Here’s how it unfolds:

1. Contact from a Stranger: You receive a random message or friend request from an unknown number, often posing as an attractive individual.
2. Flirty Conversations: The scammer engages in casual conversations, quickly turning them into flirtatious chats to build trust.
3. Video Call Trap: The scammer invites you to a video call. During this call, they either record you without your knowledge or show pre-recorded footage of someone else to trick you into compromising situations.
4. Blackmail Begins: After the call, the scammer threatens to share the recorded footage with your family, friends, or colleagues unless you pay a ransom.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can become a victim of sextortion, but certain groups are more vulnerable, such as:

• Young adults and teenagers
• People actively engaging in online dating
• Individuals seeking new online connections

How to Protect Yourself

1. Avoid Accepting Unknown Requests: If you don’t recognize the number, don’t engage. Scammers often use fake profiles to lure victims.
2. Do Not Share Intimate Content: Never share sensitive information or engage in private activities over video calls with strangers.
3. Turn Off Video for Unknown Calls: If you receive a video call from an unknown number, avoid answering with your camera on.
4. Be Wary of Fast Intimacy: Scammers often rush to make the interaction intimate. If someone is too eager, it’s a red flag.
5. Update Privacy Settings: Restrict who can contact you on WhatsApp by adjusting your privacy settings.

What to Do If You’re a Victim?

If you find yourself targeted by a sextortion scam, follow these steps:

1. Do Not Panic: Stay calm and don’t engage with the scammer.
2. Do Not Pay the Ransom: Paying only encourages them to continue the scam.
3. Report and Block: Report the number to WhatsApp and block the scammer.
4. Gather Evidence: Take screenshots of the chats, calls, and threats for reporting purposes.
5. Contact Authorities: Reach out to your local cybercrime cell or law enforcement agency for help.

Conclusion

Sextortion via WhatsApp video calls is a serious threat, but with awareness and caution, you can protect yourself. Always remember, online safety starts with you. Stay alert, stay safe, and never compromise your privacy for a fleeting connection.

If you’ve experienced or witnessed such incidents, speak up and report them. Together, we can help make the internet a safer place for everyone.