Sextortionist demands $500 in exchange for naked photos

Police are investigating a case of sextortion after money was demanded in exchange for naked pictures.

A Norfolk County resident called police at 9:06 a.m. on July 21. The victim reported receiving several text messages from unknown numbers claiming they were in possession of naked photos, said police. A demand for $500 was made in exchange for the extortionist not to share the photos with the victim's family and friends on social media. Police also say that no money changed hands.

The OPP Norfolk County Detachment is warning residents to beware when sharing photos and videos over the internet.

"Police are urging all computer users to be aware of the dangers of engaging in online web chats where explicit conversations and photographs are shared. Once it's out there, you can't get it back," Insp. Joseph Varga, detachment commander of Norfolk County OPP, said in a news release.

Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122.

Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at helpsolvecrime.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.

Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant at The Spectator in Hamilton. Reach her via email: jmoore@thespec.com