NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA REGIONAL POLICE SERVICE
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The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) is alerting residents about an extortion scam targeting individuals across the region. This scam involves threatening emails where fraudsters falsely claim to have compromising recordings of the victim. The email can contain personal information, including: name, address, phone number, and a google street view image of your home. This information is typically gathered from open-source internet searches and does not indicate a legitimate threat to personal safety.
The scam begins with an email from a cyber-criminal who alleges they have recorded you while viewing adult content. To make their threat seem legitimate, the scammer may include personal details such as your name and a photo of your home or a nearby street. In an attempt to extort money, the scammer offers to delete the alleged footage and erase any trace of you in exchange for payment. The email typically includes a QR code linked to a cryptocurrency wallet, demanding payment in Bitcoin.
This is a common tactic used by scammers - creating fear and urgency to manipulate victims into paying. Whether it’s an extortion email, a phone call from someone posing as a government official, or a fraudulent tech support claim, the goal is the same: to convince you that something is wrong and only they can fix it - for a price.
The NRPS advises the public to remain skeptical of any unsolicited requests for money or personal information. If you receive one of these emails, do not respond or send payment.
Tips to protect yourself from extortion scams:
- Safeguard your personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive details such as your address or phone number online. Be cautious about what you post on social media and other platforms.
- Update your passwords: If the scam email includes a password you recognize, ensure it is no longer in use. Change it immediately if necessary.
- Don’t rush: Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making hasty decisions. Take your time to assess the situation carefully.
For more information on how to protect yourself from fraud, visit the NRPS website or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website.
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