Beware of the Personalized Sextortion Email Scam

(photo)

Have you gotten one of those weird, threatening emails that feels just a little too personal? Maybe it even included a photo of your house? Yeah, it’s creepy—and it’s part of a new twist on an old scam: sextortion.

Let’s break it down, and more importantly, let’s make sure you don’t fall for it.

So, What’s the Deal with This Scam?

Here’s how it works:

1. You get an email claiming hackers have been spying on you.
2. They say they’ve installed malware on your computer and have some embarrassing footage of you.
3. The kicker? They include your full name, your address, and—wait for it—a picture of your house!

Pretty freaky, right? They make it sound like they’ve been lurking outside your window. But guess what? It’s all FAKE. That photo? It’s just a screenshot from Google Maps or another public website.

What Do They Want?

The scammer is going to demand a ransom—usually paid in Bitcoin (because it’s untraceable). They’ll tell you that if you don’t pay up, they’ll send this fake footage to all your friends, family, and contacts. Yikes! But before you freak out, let’s get some facts straight.

Here’s What You Need to Know:

• They don’t have any real footage. No one’s been spying on you. The claim that they’ve installed malware on your computer? Total lie.
• That photo of your house? It’s pulled from public sites like Google Maps. They’re just using it to scare you.
• Your name and address? This info is often out there thanks to data breaches (which happen way too often these days).

What Should You Do?

If you get one of these emails, don’t panic. Here’s what to do:

1. Delete the email. Don’t respond. Don’t pay. Just get rid of it.

2. Report it. Let the police or your local Attorney General’s office know. You can also report it to the FBI.

3. Don’t engage. These scammers are just throwing a fishing line out there to see who bites. Responding will only encourage them.

4. Cover your webcam when you’re not using it, just in case.

5. Never send compromising images or personal info to anyone—no matter what they say!

Why Do People Fall for This?

These scammers are betting on two things: fear and embarrassment. They hope the idea of someone having private footage will scare you into paying. But let me be clear: there’s NOTHING to fear here. This is a numbers game—they’re sending these emails to a bunch of people, hoping one or two will fall for it.

It’s like junk mail, but scarier.

Bottom Line: Don’t Let Them Scare You

Here’s the truth: Scammers are getting more creative, but their tactics are still based on the same old tricks. Fear. Intimidation. Lies.

If you’ve gotten one of these emails, don’t panic and don’t pay. These people are hoping to prey on your fear, but now that you know the truth, you can stand strong.

Remember: You’ve got the power. You’re in control here, not them. Block the email, report it, and move on with your day. Stay safe out there!