Web Blackmail

Web blackmail scams involve threatening messages or emails that attempt to extort money by claiming to have compromising information about the victim. These scams are designed to cause panic and prompt quick action, often demanding payment in cryptocurrency.

These scams rely on fear and shame. Never respond or pay—report and protect yourself instead.

How Web Blackmail Works

• Mass emails claiming to have accessed your webcam or browsing history
• Fake claims about having explicit videos or compromising images
• Demands for payment to prevent “exposure” to family, friends, or colleagues
• Sometimes use real leaked passwords from past data breaches
• Links that may install malware or harvest contacts

What You Should Do

• Do not respond to or engage with the sender
• Do not pay any money—these threats are fake
• Never click on links or download attachments in the message
• If a password is mentioned, change it immediately on all accounts
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts
• Report the email to report@cert.gov.lk

Remember, these messages are often sent to thousands of recipients at once using public data dumps or bots. Staying calm and not giving in to fear is your best defense.