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Sextortion in the Age of AI: Why Every Child Needs to Know the Risks 


Sextortion is not a new threat but the ways it happens today are more sophisticated, manipulative, and terrifying than ever. With the rise of AI-generated images, anonymous platforms, and relentless digital communication, young people are being targeted and trapped in alarming new ways.

At BeSmartOnline, our mission is to break the silence, raise awareness, and equip parents, carers, and professionals with the tools to help protect children in a rapidly evolving online world. 

 

What is Sextortion? 

Sextortion is a form of online blackmail. A child or young person is coerced into sending intimate or sexually explicit images, often under manipulation or threat. Once these images are shared, the predator may demand money, more images, or silence—threatening to share the content publicly or with loved ones. The emotional impact is devastating, leaving victims feeling powerless, anxious, and ashamed. 


The New Twist: AI-Generated Images 

In recent months, we’ve seen a worrying shift: predators are using AI to generate fake sexual images—known as deepfakes—of victims using nothing more than a simple photo from social media. This means children don’t need to send explicit images to become victims anymore. Even an innocent selfie can be manipulated into a convincing, explicit image. 

 

How AI Is Changing the Game 

AI has made sextortion more accessible and convincing for perpetrators. Here’s how: 

  • Deepfake Nudes: Offenders can create fake, sexually explicit images by superimposing a child’s face onto adult content, making it appear real. 

  • Synthetic Conversations: Chatbots and fake personas powered by AI can build trust, extract personal details, and manipulate children into vulnerable situations. 

  • Emotional Manipulation: Victims may feel trapped, believing no one will understand or believe them—especially when the images look so real, even if they are fake. 

“Even if a young person has never shared a sexual image of themselves, they can still be a victim of ‘sextortion’ through the use of this technology and the threat and impact can be just as real.”

 

Where Sextortion Happens 

Sextortion is not limited to shady websites. It’s happening on: 

  • Instagram DMs 

  • Snapchat 

  • TikTok comments and private messages 

  • Online games 

  • Chat platforms like OmeTV, Discord, or Telegram 

Perpetrators often pose as peers, friends of friends, or fake influencers, building trust before turning the conversation sexual. 

 

Signs a Child Might Be a Victim 

Victims of sextortion may: 

  • Withdraw suddenly from social media or devices 

  • Display unusual anxiety, shame, or mood swings 

  • Avoid social situations 

  • Try to hide phone activity 

  • Show signs of depression or panic attacks 

It’s essential to approach these signs with empathy, not judgment. Many children feel immense shame and fear of getting in trouble, which keeps them silent. 

 

What Can Parents and Professionals Do? 

Talk Early and Often 

  • Normalise conversations about online safety, privacy, and trust. Let children know they can always come to you—no matter what. 

Use Real Examples 

  • Explain how sextortion can start innocently, often disguised as a friendship or game. Discuss the dangers of sending images—even “as a joke”. 

Set Up Privacy Controls 

  • Review and limit who can message, follow, or see your child’s profiles. Teach them to never accept strangers. 

Report and Block Immediately 

  • If a child receives a threat or explicit request, do not engage. Screenshot where possible, report the account, and contact a helpline. 

Get Professional Help 

  • In Malta, our BeSmartOnline Helpline (179) is here to support you 24/7. Our team is trained to handle sensitive cases and can connect families with psychological, legal, and technical support.


A Final Word: It’s Not Their Fault 

Victims of sextortion are never to blame. The shame and fear are real, but there is help, and there is a way out. As adults, we must stay informed, create safe spaces for dialogue, and empower young people to trust their instincts—and to know that they will be believed, supported, and protected. 

If you need support or advice, reach out to BeSmartOnline’s Helpline (179) or contact us via our social media channels. Together, we can break the silence and stop sextortion in its tracks. 

 

Stay informed. Stay safe. Be smart—online and offline. 


Written by Davinia Marie Muscat - Safer Internet Centre, Helpline and Hotline


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