The podcast delves into the troubling rise of online sextortion targeting children, particularly from Nigeria. It highlights the tragic case of Jordan DeMay, a 17 year-old victim who took his own life due to sextortion. The episode also discusses the FBI's efforts to combat this international problem.
Sextortion schemes target US children, leading to tragic suicides.
Nigeria is a hub for cybercriminals using social media in sextortion cases.
Deep dives
Growing Concern of Sextortion Schemes Targeting Children in the US
A concerning trend explored in the podcast is the rise of online sextortion schemes targeting children in the US. Cybercriminals, often based in countries like Nigeria, use fake profiles and AI-generated images to coerce victims into sending compromising pictures. They then demand ransom under the threat of sharing these images with the victim's family or friends. The tragic case of Jordan DeMay, a 17-year-old high school student who fell victim to sextortion and took his own life after demands for money, highlights the devastating impact of these schemes on young individuals.
Nigeria's Role in Sextortion Crimes and Efforts to Combat the Issue
The podcast delves into the prevalence of sextortion crimes originating from Nigeria and the challenges faced in addressing this issue. Social media platforms are utilized by criminals to target young individuals globally, with scammers providing scripts and tactics to extort victims. The extradition and prosecution of individuals involved in sextortion cases, such as the Okoshi brothers in the Jordan DeMay case, signal efforts to combat these crimes. Additionally, parents are urged to remain vigilant, communicate with their children about online threats, and seek support if needed to prevent further tragic incidents like Jordan's death.
A growing number of children in the U.S. are being targeted in sextortion schemes— a scam in which a cybercriminal obtains and then threatens to release nude or sexually compromising photos, blackmailing victims for a ransom. And sadly dozens of young victims have died by suicide in the last few years. Cybercriminals are often based abroad and it is a particular problem in Nigeria. Our correspondent in Lagos, Nigeria tells us about the issue, about the tragic case of one 17 year-old victim who took his own life, and about what the FBI is doing to combat the problem.
If you or someone you know may be considering suicide or is in crisis, please get support. In the U.S. you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.