MIDDLE TENNESSEE – Despite repeated warnings from the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), along with messages from local law enforcement, a potentially dangerous scam that targets teens and young adults continues to be a problem… That was TBI Assistant Special Agent Rob Burkhart at a past press conference that was previously held, explaining where the “Sextortion” scam often originates…

The special agent outlined what typically happens… However, the person on the other end of that chat - is not really their age. The suspect in most cases is an adult, but has a profile that appears to be a teen. After the fake friendship begins, the scam moves into gear…

In between the chats and photos, the con-man scurry’s through the victims social media accounts to collect all the information they can…  Little does the unsuspecting juvenile know, the game of blackmail is about to begin…

Law enforcement agencies throughout the country urge parents to stay vigilant about their children's online activities. Earlier this year, the Williamson County Sheriff's Office released a statement about sextortion, stating, “We’re seeing more sextortion cases right here in our own community—and unfortunately, the FBI is reporting a sharp national increase in incidents where children and teens are being coerced into sending explicit images online.”

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) advises never to send compromising images of yourself to anyone, regardless of who they claim to be. Additionally, experts recommend avoiding the opening of unsolicited attachments on phones or computers, as some files may contain spyware or malicious software designed to steal personal data, including passwords. Interestingly, the bureau also suggests turning off or covering built-in webcams on laptops and desktop computers as an extra precaution against unauthorized access.

EDUCATE YOURSELF: In Rutherford County, the Child Advocacy Center and MTSU professors recently sounded the alarm on sextortion, warning parents, teachers, and youth workers to recognize the signs of such acts. The news article regarding the Child Advocacy Center can be found HERE.