Police warn Falkirk residents over webcam blackmail and sextortion

A Police Scotland spokeperson said: “"We’ve recently had reports of webcam blackmail/sextortion in the Forth Valley area, where criminals befriend victims online using fake identities, persuade them to perform sexual acts in front of a webcam – often by using attractive women/men to entice the victim to participate.

“The webcam videos are recorded, then used as blackmail by threatening to share them with the victims’ friends and family, unless the victim pays money. The best way to protect potential victims is to encourage them to be careful about whom you befriend online just as you would offline, especially when considering sharing intimate images.”

Police have issued advice on what people should do if they find themselves in this unfortunate situation.

They should contact police and their Internet service provider immediately.

A police spokesperson said: “We will take this seriously, deal with it in confidence and will not judge you. Don't communicate further with the criminals, but take screen shots of all your communication.

“Suspend your Facebook account – don’t delete it – and use the online reporting processes to report the matter to Skype, YouTube to have videos blocked and set up alerts in case the video resurfaces.

“Do not delete any correspondence. If this has happened to you and you’re under 18 please talk to an adult that you trust. It may feel like there is no way out, but there are professionals who can help you.”