Nationwide Building Society has issued an urgent warning to men in their 20s, urging them to 'stop and pause' amid a surge in sextortion scams. Analysis of 50 cases by the society reveals that men are almost exclusively the victims, with 98% of cases involving males. Nearly half of those targeted were aged in their 20s, though the youngest victim was just 13 and the oldest 70.
What is Sextortion?
Sextortion is a form of blackmail where criminals threaten to share sexual images, videos, or information unless the victim pays a ransom or provides other benefits. Scammers often befriend victims on social media using fake identities, engage in sexual conversations, and pressure them into sending explicit material. They may also claim to have accessed the victim's contacts to increase the threat.
Real-Life Cases
In one case handled by Nationwide, a victim exchanged images and video-called someone met online, only to receive a threatening call demanding money. In another, an individual shared private images and was told to buy Apple gift cards or risk exposure. The victim confided in his father, who reported the crime to police.
Young People at Risk
A survey commissioned by Nationwide, conducted by Censuswide among 2,000 people aged 16 and over in February, found that 54% of high school or university students believe spotting scams has become harder. Jim Winters, head of economic crime at Nationwide, said: 'These cases illustrate how scammers exploit vulnerability, urgency and shame, especially among younger people who may have limited experience with fraud or feel too embarrassed to ask for help early.'
Safety Advice from Nationwide
- Stop and pause before sharing images or personal details. Once shared, there is no going back. Scammers often rush victims to prevent them from thinking clearly.
- Avoid moving to another platform at someone else's request. Fraudsters shift conversations to less secure channels quickly.
- Scammers thrive on panic and urgency. Making payments may lead to further demands.
- Talk to someone you trust and report the incident. Embarrassment is what scammers rely on; confiding in police, friends, family, or your bank enables faster action and protection.
Winters added: 'The safest way to protect yourself is not to share anything that you wouldn’t want in the wrong hands. Maybe easier said than done but the damage caused here is far beyond financial.'
