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Financial sextortion is currently on the rise. Scammers are especially targeting teenage boys these days, but it’s no secret that the financial sextortion in the LGBTQ+ community is also chronic and serious.
But first, just what exactly is financial sextortion?
Financial sextortion in the LGBTQ+ community refers to a form of online abuse where perpetrators use threats, coercion, or manipulation to extort money or financial favors from individuals based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, or LGBTQ+ status. This type of exploitation often occurs through online platforms, dating apps, or social media channels where LGBTQ+ individuals may be more vulnerable to targeted harassment or exploitation.
Perpetrators of financial sextortion may use various tactics to exploit their victims, such as threatening to disclose sensitive information about their sexual orientation or gender identity to friends, family, or employers unless they comply with their demands for money or other financial benefits. This can result in significant emotional distress, financial hardship, and even long-term consequences for the victims, including loss of employment, housing instability, or damage to personal relationships.
Financial sextortion is a serious form of online abuse that can have devastating effects on the mental health, well-being, and financial stability of LGBTQ+ individuals. It is important for victims to seek support from trusted resources, such as LGBTQ+ support organizations, legal aid services, or law enforcement agencies, to address the abuse and explore options for protection and recourse.
Spotting extortion scams such as financial sextortion on LGBTQ+ dating apps like Adam4Adam requires vigilance and awareness of common tactics used by scammers. Here are some tips to help identify and avoid extortion scams:
1. Too Quick to Move Off the App: Be cautious if someone you just met on the app quickly suggests moving communication to another platform, such as email or messaging apps. Scammers may prefer these platforms because they offer more anonymity and are harder to trace.
2. Pressure to Share Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as your address, financial details, or compromising photos or videos, with someone you’ve just met online. Scammers may try to pressure you into sharing this information by threatening to expose or embarrass you.
3. Unsolicited Requests for Intimate Content: Be wary of unsolicited requests for intimate photos or videos, especially if the person is overly persistent or aggressive. Scammers may use these materials as leverage for extortion later on.
4. Inconsistent or Suspicious Behavior: Pay attention to inconsistencies in the person’s profile or messages, such as discrepancies in their age, location, or photos. Trust your instincts and be cautious if something feels off or too good to be true.
5. Threats and Coercion: Watch out for any signs of threats, blackmail, or coercion. Scammers may use fear tactics to pressure you into complying with their demands, such as threatening to expose your sexual orientation or intimate content to friends, family, or employers.
6. Request for Money or Gifts: Be cautious if someone you’ve just met online asks for money, gifts, or other financial assistance. Scammers may try to exploit your emotions or vulnerabilities to manipulate you into sending them money or valuable items.
7. Research and Verification: Take steps to verify the person’s identity and intentions before sharing personal information or engaging in intimate conversations. You can conduct online searches, reverse image searches, or ask for additional proof of identity to confirm their authenticity.
8. Report and Block Suspicious Profiles: If you encounter a suspicious profile or suspect that you’re being targeted by an extortion scam, report the user to Adam4Adam’s administrators and block them to prevent further communication.
By staying informed and exercising caution when interacting with others online, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to extortion scams. Trust your instincts, prioritize your safety, and seek support from trusted friends or professionals if you ever feel threatened or uncomfortable.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial sextortion within the LGBTQ+ community, it’s essential to seek support and assistance from relevant resources. Here are some options:
1. The National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC): The NCVC offers a variety of resources and support services for victims of crime, including financial sextortion. You can contact their VictimConnect Resource Center by calling 1-855-4-VICTIM (1-855-484-2846) or using their online chat feature on their website.
2. The Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (CCRI): CCRI is an organization dedicated to combating online abuse and supporting victims of non-consensual pornography, including financial sextortion. You can reach out to CCRI for assistance and resources through their website.
3. The National Domestic Violence Hotline: While primarily focused on domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers support and resources for victims of various forms of abuse, including financial sextortion. You can contact their hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233) or chat with an advocate on their website.
4. The Trevor Project: The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ+ youth, including support for those experiencing online harassment or extortion. You can reach their 24/7 hotline at 1-866-488-7386, text START to 678678, or chat with a trained counselor on their website.
5. Local LGBTQ+ Community Centers: Many local LGBTQ+ community centers offer support services and resources for individuals experiencing various forms of harassment or abuse, including financial sextortion. You can search online for LGBTQ+ community centers in your area and inquire about available support options.
6. Legal Aid Organizations: Legal aid organizations may provide assistance to victims of financial sextortion, including legal advice and representation. You can search online for legal aid organizations in your area or contact your local bar association for referrals.
7. Online Support Groups and Forums: Online support groups and forums specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals may provide a safe space to connect with others who have experienced similar forms of abuse and share resources and advice. Websites like Reddit and Facebook often have dedicated groups for discussing LGBTQ+ issues and providing support.
Remember that you are not alone, and there are resources and support available to help you navigate financial sextortion and its impact on your life. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance and support from trusted organizations and individuals.
Be wary of sharing your phone number or email. A married friend shared his phone number. The scammer did an online search of that number and got the address and relatives of the victim. They wanted $1000 or they would contact the relatives. My friend contacted the police instead. They suggested he ignore that and block the scammer. The police explained that the scammers sometimes work up several victims and do not have time to go after the relatives opting to steal money quickly from several. Even guys I know and have met I will not share my phone telling… Read more »
…it helps if you fire back at the extortionists they are committing a Federal crime, and will serve jail time.
I’ve been (unsuccessfully) Sextorted, and this warning to them scared the crap out of them.
In addition to not sending personal info anywhere close to the first chat, … Look at how long they’ve been on the app, and if they have any images or pictures posted, use Google lens to see if they are stock photos…THAT trick has shamed some of them into disappearing.
Good luck, have fun, BUT be safe and look after yourself!
desktops are a bit safer than apps
Not sure how that’s the case. The website is every bit as crawling with suspiciously attractive people whose profiles were just created “1 day ago”.
a bit safer not absolutely safer
I have a google phone number that I only give if I’m planning to meet someone. It has a block function. I would never give my real phone out to a stranger. Or last name.
I have a face, body and dick pic. You can’t see any those elements in more than one pic. I also make sure if meeting someone that it’s non/profit for all involved. If they balk at anything, I move on.
this type of extortion isnt limited to gays and is the same as extorting straight people, no worse . no better.
did we read the same thing? the article said so in the first paragraph
This article missed two very obvious red flags — one of which A4A can easily remedy. First, be very wary of those who’ve recently opened their accounts. Second, RUN from anyone whose profile is virtually empty with no narrative. At best, the dude is casual and lazy…. IDK why A4A allows this proliferation of ’empty’ profiles…. As an aside, avoid anyone who writes about nothing other than what he doesn’t like. You should be able to figure out why…. Stay safe.
Get at least 1 if not 4 scammer calls per day. Every week or so, I answer one in my Little Old Man voice, giving vague answers to questions. After a while, I say “well actually, the Widow Henderson and I went to dinner last night. She stopped by after and well one thing lead to another and we haven’t gotten out of bed yet today. We were just taking about how our privates are sticky and we need a shower.” Or “the nice young man who helps me with groceries, bill paying, and baths is here. Sometimes after a… Read more »
LMAO.!!! I do the exact same thing, d’Espirit — and I barely receive any scam calls anymore.
If you ever share your naughty pics with someone new, do not include your face or specific identifiable things in the background of the pic. Cover up your tattoos and piercings if you have to. Make a copy of the pic and clean up the EXIF data in there as to not identify your location.
If you have to give a phone number, get number from Text Now or similar app. I avoided being sextorted while in Bradenton FL by giving a Text Now number. He posted a person’s first and last name that wasn’t me. I never told him that and immediately blocked the loser. He’s 29 and in Bradenton FL.