Saskatchewan RCMP Report 200% Increase in Reports of Online Extortion

July 27, 2023

2 minutes read

Saskatchewan RCMP has received 105 reports of extortion from January to June 2023. Thirty-six reports were received over the same period in 2022, marking a nearly 200% increase year-over-year. These reports are coming from communities throughout Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction, including Kindersley.

The majority of these reports are what is commonly called “sextortion”. Typically, the victim meets someone online on common platforms like social media, gaming or dating sites. Communication may move to other methods like texting, chat sites or messaging. The suspect persuades the victim to send a nude photo or video, then threatens to send it to the victim’s contacts or post it publicly, unless payment is made. Even if the victim hasn’t sent a photo or video, the scammers may alter photos to make it look like they did.

Another reported scam involves a suspect telling a victim they’ve hacked their computer/phone or are monitoring their online activities. The suspect threatens to send details to the victim’s contacts, or post it online, unless payment is made. Even if the victim’s online activity doesn’t include anything compromising, the suspect will sometimes threaten to make it look as if they have.

These extortions can be extremely traumatic for victims. Some victims have lost money by paying the scammers by gift cards, e-transfers or cryptocurrency. Even if no money is lost, becoming a victim to such a crime can be immensely stressful and traumatic.

“A 200% increase is alarming—due to the sensitive nature of these extortions, we believe these files are likely under-reported to police,” says Monica Deters, a crime analyst with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Crime Prevention/Crime Reduction unit. “Saskatchewan RCMP proactively monitors crime trends and this allows us to inform the public when we see an emerging issue. Based on the statistics we’re seeing, we’re letting Saskatchewan residents know these extortions are happening and that should be taking steps to protect themselves from these types of crime.”

Here are some steps you can take:

You never really know who you’re talking to online. Be aware that some scammers pretend to be other people to earn your trust.
Don’t send intimate photos or videos. As soon as they are sent to someone or are posted online, you lose control of them.
Monitor your child’s online activity, including their social media use and search history. Have frequent conversations about online safety.

If you are a victim:

Immediately stop talking to the suspect.
Deactivate (don’t delete) any social media accounts you are using to communicate with them.
Keep any record of conversations with the suspect.
Don’t send money or gift cards.
Contact police.

For more information on sextortion, visit: https://www.cybertip.ca/en/online-harms/sextortion/

To report an incident, contact your local police service. Dial 310-RCMP to reach your local RCMP detachment. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.