October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and each year, the Augusta University Cyber Defense team in the Security Operations Center highlights the year’s top trends.

One emerging threat that has seen increased attention in recent months is sextortion, a form of blackmail where cybercriminals threaten to share intimate images or videos unless victims comply with demands for money or other favors.

“When communicating online, knowing the difference between someone real and a cybercriminal is harder than ever,” said Curtis Dyal, director of Campus Security for the AU Police Department. “Sexual extortion is a crime – report it, and don’t allow cybercriminals to take your money, safety or well-being. The AU Police Department is available 24/7 if you need assistance or have questions.”

How does it happen?

• Online Relationships: Cybercriminals may pose as someone interested in a romantic relationship to gain a user’s trust.

• Hacking: Cybercriminals can hack into devices or social media accounts to steal private content.

• Phishing: Users who click on malicious links can give cybercriminals access to their personal information and files.

The threats

Sextortion can cause severe emotional distress, leaving victims with anxiety, shame and fear and, in some tragic cases, even leading to suicide. It can also damage reputations, as the threat of having intimate content shared publicly may harm personal and professional relationships.

Beyond these risks, scammers often demand money, creating severe financial strain. In fact, the FBI has reported nearly 55,000 cases of sextortion and extortion in 2024, with losses totaling $33.5 million, a 59% increase from 2023.

According to Special Agent Charles Kicklighter with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, here is what to do if you ever fall victim to sextortion:

• NEVER send money, crypto or gold (precious metal).

• Don’t click on unknown links.

• Keep software up to date.

• Verify emails/URLs with free open-source intelligence.

• Have a code word for your family in case AI is used to solicit money. The bad guy will not know the code word.

• Report to local law enforcement and the Internet Crime Compliance Center.

AU Cyber Defense also urges AU faculty, staff and students to protect themselves from sextortion by being cautious online:

• Never share intimate content with others.

• Secure your devices using strong passwords of at least 12 characters, and keep your software and security settings updated.

• Stay alert to phishing attempts by avoiding unsolicited messages and links, and report suspicious activity to [email protected].

It’s easy to meet people online in today’s digital world, but we must remain vigilant, as not everyone has the best intentions. To protect yourself, remember to never comply with demands, keep records of all interactions and, if you’re on campus, report incidents immediately to AUPD at 706-721-2911.