Police in Lanarkshire have issued advice on staying safe online and to avoid social media sextortion.
Officers advised locals to only share personal information with people you know and trust and to review your profile settings regularly and make your accounts private.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Social media sextortion uses access to your contacts as leverage, and criminals may threaten to share your videos and pictures with them unless you pay them money.
“Keeping your social media profiles and contacts private makes you a less attractive target.
“Some online platforms offer video chat. Only activate your camera when you want to. Make sure it is turned off and covered all times when not being used.
“Don’t allow yourself to be coaxed or persuaded into activity that you will later regret such as sharing photos, videos, undressing performing a sex act.
“If you use apps to find someone to chat to or flirt with, be careful. Look out for red flags including a conversation quickly becoming sexual or being asked to move to another platform or app.
“Online relationships are quick to develop and in the heat of the moment you could be tempted to do things you wouldn’t normally do in person. End any chats that you are not comfortable with. Stay in control of what you do.”
If you have doubts or need support or advice contact the police or a support agency as soon as possible.
More information is available by logging onto https://www.scotland.police.uk/advice-and-information/internet-safety/sextortion
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