Police warn of extortion email scam
Posted October 15, 2024
South Simcoe Police are warning the public to be aware of an ongoing email extortion scam after receiving multiple reports.
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In this scam, an extortion email claims that the recipient has visited explicit websites, and it alleges that malware has captured compromising photos and videos of them. The suspect threatens to release the history and/or footage unless a bitcoin payment is made. Along with the threatening message, a screenshot of a Google map street view showing the victim’s residence and other personal information, such as their name and phone number, are included as proof of their knowledge about the victim’s identity.
They then demand immediate payment to a Bitcoin payment account, threatening to release the compromising material to the victim’s family and friends if the demand is not met.
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South Simcoe Police urge the public to exercise caution to avoid falling victim to this scam and to report scams through our online reporting portal.