Sextortion Scams: The Dark Side of Geomapping Data and Your Privacy
Sextortion Scams on the Rise
The tech landscape has shifted, and so have the tactics of scammers. An insidious sextortion email scam utilizes Google images of home addresses to demand Bitcoin from targets. This new scam merges personal threats with publicly accessible geomapping data to escalate the fear factor.
How the Scam Works
According to 404 Media, the scam begins with an email directed at the target, filled with gut-wrenching threats insinuating that the scammer possesses "proof" of illegal activities. Images of the target's home address—scrubbed from Google Maps—add a layer of authenticity that is chilling.
- Threatening emails allege the use of spyware, like Pegasus, to bolster legitimacy.
- Scammers include personal information to further convince victims.
- This information is often easily accessible due to data breaches.
Protecting Yourself Against Sextortion
Safety and privacy advocates are alarmed by the rise of sextortion, particularly among vulnerable populations. According to Thorn, an average of 812 reports of sextortion arrive at the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children each week. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Never send personal images or money to strangers.
- Report any suspicious emails to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.
- Consider blurring your house on Google Maps for added privacy.
As these scams grow more sophisticated, staying informed and cautious is essential to safeguard your privacy and security.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.