STRASBURG VA: (Rocktown Now) – Authorities are sounding the alarm regarding an uptick in reports involving the “sextortion” of juveniles in Shenandoah County.

Sextortion is a form of online blackmail where criminals coerce juveniles to share explicit images or videos of themselves over direct messages and then threaten to release the material unless the victim pays money or complies with other demands.

Anyone who has received such threats should refrain from sending more images, paying money, or responding to demands, but should take screenshots and report and block the attacker.

The Strasburg Police Department is urging all parents and guardians to regularly check children’s devices and monitor for any suspicious or concerning behavior.
Contact local law enforcement with any questions.