Marietta Parent Warns of Sextortion Attempt Involving Teen, Police Share Tips

A Marietta parent recently approached the Marietta Police Department (MPD) to share their family’s experience involving their child and a sextortion attempt. Thanks to the timely involvement of the MPD, the situation was resolved without any severe consequences.

The parent described the incident, stating, “This morning my teen received an Instagram message with a photoshopped picture of my teen showing his/her private parts. They then said they would send it to all my teen’s friends and ruin my teen’s life if my teen didn’t send $300. My teen blocked the sender. They then began texting my teen’s phone from an iCloud address, giving my teen a countdown and telling my teen they would ruin his/her life. My teen texted us (the parents) and we immediately went to the school. My teen was visibly upset and shaking. We met with the administrators and police who were incredibly kind and compassionate.

Parents need to know this is happening and that your kid may not tell you because they are embarrassed! They need to immediately take their phone to the police before blocking them. Luckily, it seems like they haven’t done anything and it was a bluff, but it’s been horrible especially knowing it’s fake and my teen did nothing wrong”

The parent and the MPD emphasized several key takeaways from the experience:

1. Sextortion can happen to anyone, regardless of age or location.
2. The perpetrators may not know their victims personally and could be operating from anywhere in the world.
3. Both boys and girls are vulnerable to these schemes.
4. Parents are urged to communicate with their children about how to prevent such incidents and what steps to take if they or their friends encounter such a situation.
5. With the advancement of technology and artificial intelligence, the photos used in these scams may not even be real.
6. The demands for money in these situations typically persist.
7. Children should be reminded never to send nude photos, but also reassured that their parents are there to help them if they find themselves in trouble.
8. Sextortion is more common than many people realize.

The MPD expressed gratitude for the parent’s courage in sharing their story, hoping it will raise awareness and help prevent similar incidents in other families. The department also reminded the community that they are available to offer assistance if needed.