Beware of Sextortion Per Washo Sheriff: “NEWS RELEASE: Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Warns of Uptick in Digital Media-Based Sextortion Cases The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is urging the public to be aware of a recent increase in digital media-based sextortion cases. Over the past week, our office has handled four separate cases involving the transmission of intimate images through various social media platforms. In these cases, victims sent intimate photos or videos to individuals they believed they could trust. Shortly after sending the images, they received threatening messages demanding money. The suspects warned that if their demands were not met, they would distribute the explicit content to the victims’ contacts and social networks. In some instances, the suspects escalated the threats by claiming they would also accuse the victims of involvement in child pornography manufacturing, further intensifying the pressure and fear on the victims. We urge community members to exercise extreme caution when communicating online, especially when engaging in conversations that may involve sharing personal or intimate content with individuals they do not know personally. It is crucial to understand that once an image is shared digitally, it can be exploited by individuals with malicious intent. Victims should not comply with the extortion demands but should, instead, report the incident to law enforcement immediately. The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating these incidents and remains committed to protecting our community from digital exploitation and bringing those responsible for these crimes to justice. We encourage anyone who has experienced similar threats or who may have information related to these crimes to come forward. To report an incident, contact the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at (775) 785-9276 (WCSO). To remain anonymous, individuals can contact Secret Witness at (775) 322-4900.”