Don’t be snared by sex-tortion scam, urges police boss
Organised sex- tortion gangs are targeting Renfrewshire residents in cruel online blackmail scams, police have warned.
Officers in the region have received reports that sick criminals are threatening to publish intimate images of victims if they do not send them large sums of cash.
It is understood a man in Renfrewshire has fallen foul of a scam in recent days, prompting a warning from Renfrewshire’s top cop.
It’s understood criminal gangs outwith the UK are often behind the frauds, which sees a young woman strike up a conversation with a man online leading him to believe they are romantically linked.
The victims are then urged to send personal or intimate pictures of themselves, which are then used to blackmail them.
Crooks threaten to send the picture to loved ones or social media contacts.
Police are urging people to be aware of cruel scams and to protect themselves online
Chief Superintendent Alan Murray, Divisonal Commander for Renfrewshire, said the current lockdown could lead to more cases as people are feeling more isolated and alone.
He said: “There is no doubt that the loneliness some people are experiencing because of the coronavirus lockdown has made them more vulnerable to certain types of fraud and extortion.
“In recent days we have received reports of incidents where the fraudster lures the victim into believing that they are looking for a genuine romantic relationship.
“Once the online relationship is established the fraudster encourages the victim to send personal photographs or engage in intimate actions via social media. This is followed by an attempt to blackmail the victim for large sums of money by threatening to circulate the personal material.
“In the majority of cases we have found that the suspects are generally based out with the UK and are communicating via false social media accounts.
He added: “It is imperative that people are aware of this type of crime and remain vigilant to unsolicited communication via social media platforms.
“If you believe that you are being targeted in such a way then please do not send money and contact Police Scotland where relevant help and advice can be provided.”
Call police on 101 if you are a victim.
It is imperative that people are aware of this type of crime
CS Alan Murray