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How To Protect Yourself

Protect yourself from online blackmail

Anyone can be the victim of sextortion but there are steps you can take to prevent this type of crime from happening to you. Read our prevention advice below:

  • Avoid sharing intimate videos online.
  • Do not get lured into compromising situations such as removing clothes or performing intimate acts online.
  • Always remember that what goes online may well stay online.
  • Be wary about who you invite or accept invitations from on social networking sites. Do not accept friendship requests from complete strangers.
  • Update the privacy settings on your social networking accounts so only people you know can view your account.
  • Do not include any sensitive, private or confidential information in profiles.
Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) - Online Safety Hub logo
Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) - Online Safety Hub logo

Further Support and Advice

Developed by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), the Online Safety Hub is a dedicated website for young people and adults, focusing on Online Safety.

It covers the key aspects of these risks of online blackmail, including how it can happen, the warning signs and practical advice so you can stay safe online.

Learn about Online Grooming and Online blackmail