FBI Officials Warn of ‘Send Nudes’ Scam Targeting Maine Teens

According to WMTW, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeing a rise in sextortion cases involving children and teens, where criminals coerce victims into sending explicit images online.

Maine is being urged to take notice at this recent crime raise and become educated on what it is.

The report says that the US Attorney for Maine, Darcie McElwee says that one in six kids between 9 and 17 admit to sharing nude images online. This is severe and a warning to all Maine families.

What is sextortion?

According to an FBI video created by an agent, sextortion starts on any online platform, with perpetrators threatening to share existing images unless victims comply with demands for more images or money. A video is below.

The article goes onto say that online enticement linked to financial sextortion has increased by 82% in 2022,

Will Crogan of Homeland Security Investigations is warning folks of predators deceiving younger children online and using AI to manipulate victims.

Because of this, Maine families are urged to be extra cautious, as AI can create convincing fake images.

An article from Peace Health offers very valuable guidance on teaching children how to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Education about online safety begins at home, stressing the importance of discussing age-appropriate risks with children and maintaining ongoing conversations about the dangers of the internet.

These efforts are crucial for fostering a safer technological society and promoting healthy growth for children in today's digital age.

To seek help or report exploitation, contact the local FBI field office at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit Tips.Fbi.Gov.