The Halton Police are warning of an increase in online extortion incidents.
They said the increase began in the early summer.
According to reports, an unknown messager starts a private conversation through Snapchat or Instagram.
They then try to extort the victim for money through pictures gained through the conversation.
The Halton Police say they would like to remind the community of the importance of safe internet practices to avoid becoming the victim of such scams. Some tips include:
- Avoid engaging in conversations with strangers;
- Avoid engaging in compromising behaviour online;
- Do not to do anything on camera that you’re not comfortable with your friends or family seeing.
Anyone with information regarding these types of offences is asked to contact Detective Constable Ian Lynn of the 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext 2442.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
