Young people’s experiences of online sexual extortion or ‘sextortion’

Abstract

This briefing by the NSPCC sheds light on the growing issue of online sexual extortion, or 'sextortion,' targeting children and young people. Drawing on insights from Childline counselling sessions and NSPCC Helpline contacts, the report highlights various tactics used by perpetrators, such as blackmail, threats to release real or fake sexual images, and financial extortion. Young people who experienced sextortion often reported mental health impacts, including anxiety, shame, and fear, with some contemplating self-harm or suicide.<br><br>

The report identifies that sextortion can affect young people across genders, with boys more often facing financial blackmail and girls pressured to send further explicit images. Through anonymised quotes, the briefing provides a glimpse into the distressing experiences faced by young people and offers guidance for parents, carers, and professionals on spotting signs of sextortion and supporting those affected. It advocates for the implementation of safety tools like the "Report Remove" service, developed by Childline and the Internet Watch Foundation, and calls for tech companies to adopt proactive measures under the Online Safety Act to safeguard children in digital spaces.