The PEI RCMP is investigating several reports across its jurisdiction of online harassment and extortion related to the sharing of intimate images via social media sites.
Since July 31, 2021, the PEI RCMP has received at least six reports involving Island men and women who accepted friends requests on Facebook from people of the opposite gender they did not know. A conversation of a sexual nature followed, during which the complainants were asked to send intimate photos. Immediately after the photos were sent, the complainants were threatened with distribution of the images to their contacts unless financial payment was made. In some cases, the images were shared with some of the complainant's Facebook contacts.
Police are investigating whether the incidents may be linked, as well as where the perpetrators may be located.
"These types of incidents are taken seriously and are investigated thoroughly," says Sgt. Chris Gunn of the PEI RCMP. "If you have been a victim of a similar crime, please contact police."
Anyone who has been the victim of a similar crime, or who has information that may help the investigation, is asked to contact the PEI RCMP at 902-566-7112. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.
For more information on how to protect yourself online, please visit the following links: