Attackers threaten to publish compromising pictures or video material if you do not respond to a ransom demand. Victims were previously contacted via social media and lured into undressing in front of the camera.
This type of blackmail usually starts with someone reaching out to you on social media or a dating site. As the conversation moves forward, it quickly turns to the topic of exchanging intimate pictures or videos. The blackmailers often start by sharing intimate pictures they claim to be of themselves, and then pressure their victims to send nude pictures in return.
In some cases, the scammer may encourage the victim to agree to a video chat. During the chat, the victim is persuaded to undress or engage in sexual acts, all of which are secretly recorded. The scammers then threaten to release the video or images unless a ransom is paid.
If this happens to you, do not give in to the blackmail and break off contact. Report the incident to the police; they can help you with the next steps.
Specific measures
Preventive measures
How the NCSC can help
Further Information
- Break off all contact.
- Do not respond to the blackmailers' demands.
- Report the incident to the police and file a complaint. You can find your nearest police station on the Suisse ePolice website.
- Save all evidence: The images and videos used to blackmail you, the contact details of everyone involved, all messages (chat histories, emails, etc.), transaction details, etc.
- Delete the person from your friends list and do not respond to their emails, text messages etc.
- If the blackmailers have shared images or videos, contact the service concerned (e.g. YouTube, Facebook) as soon as possible and demand that the sexual content is removed immediately.
- Set up a Google alert for your name. This will let you know when new videos and photos are uploaded to the web under your name.
- Talk to someone you trust about what happened or seek professional help if the blackmail is causing you distress.
- Never share nude pictures or videos of yourself.
- If in doubt, it is better to break off all contact.
Your report via the online form helps the NCSC identify trends. This makes it possible for the NCSC to raise public awareness in a targeted way.
Last modification 09.10.2025
