PHILADELPHIA - FBI Philadelphia is warning parents to be extra cautious after a reported increase in sextortion incidents in the area."Sextortion begins when an adult contacts a minor over any online platform used to meet and communicate, such as a game, app, or social media account," FBI Philadelphia says.A recent scheme is targeting boys, usually ages 14 to 17, according to the FBI.
In this scheme, officials say the predator poses as a young girl to convince boys to engage in an explicit activity in a secretly recorded video.
The predator then allegedly tries to extort the victims by demanding money or more images, and threatening to post the recording online.Young girls are also said to be targets of similar schemes."To be clear: sextortion is a crime," says FBI Philadelphia.MORE HEADLINES:An adult who produces child sexual abuse materials by coercing a child could face life in prison."The embarrassment children feel from the activity they were forced to engage in is what typically prevents them from coming forward," the FBI said. "Know that sextortion offenders may have hundreds of victims around the world, so coming forward to help law enforcement identify the offender may prevent further sexual exploitation of that victim and others."FBI Philadelphia is asking adults to discuss these topics with their kids, and to remember these tips to stay safe:If you believe you or someone you know is the victim of sextortion: AdvertisementFor more information on sextortion and resources for parents and caregivers, visit FBI Philadelphia's website..