Portugal’s Judiciary Police (PJ) have issued an important warning about the risks of communicating with strangers online, particularly criminals who use intimate images or videos to blackmail and extort their victims.
Under the campaign slogan “VOLTE-FACE online is fierce and real,” the PJ warned that an apparently harmless social media profile may conceal someone with criminal intentions.
“Do you know who is behind the profile?” The PJ asked, stressing that the identity presented online may bear little resemblance to the person operating the account.
According to the PJ, criminals tailor their conversations to each potential victim, changing their approach according to the information the individual shares and what can be gathered from their online presence.
What begins as a friendly or flirtatious conversation can develop into blackmail, threats or an attempted attack, particularly after intimate or sexually explicit material has been exchanged.
The PJ warned that extortion and deliberate humiliation are recurring features of these crimes. Users are strongly advised never to share intimate photographs or videos that could later be used against them.
People should also exercise particular caution when using a webcam with someone they have only recently met online.
The police recommend:
- Reviewing and strengthening the privacy settings on social media accounts.
- Restricting online contacts to people whose identities are known and trusted.
- Avoiding the sharing of intimate images or videos.
- Using webcams cautiously, particularly when communicating with new online contacts.
“Apply the safety rule: only accept online those who are within your circle of people you know,” the Judiciary Police advised.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
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