The Saskatchewan RCMP has reported a 200 per cent increase in extortion cases through the first six months of 2023.

From January to June, the RCMP received 105 reports of extortion compared to 36 cases over the same period in 2022.

The RCMP says that the majority of these reports are what is commonly called “sextortion.”

Sextortion typically happens when the victim meets someone online on common platforms like social media, gaming or dating sites. Communication may move to other methods like texting, chat sites or messaging. The suspect persuades the victim to send a nude photo or video, then threatens to send it to the victim’s contacts or post it publicly unless payment is made. Even if the victim hasn’t sent a photo or video, the scammers may alter photos to make it look like they did.

Another reported scam involves a suspect telling a victim they’ve hacked their computer/phone or are monitoring their online activities. The suspect threatens to send details to the victim’s contacts or post them online unless payment is made. Even if the victim’s online activity doesn’t include anything compromising, the suspect will sometimes threaten to make it look as if they have.

The RCMP says that these extortions can be highly traumatic for victims, with some victims having lost money by paying the scammers with gift cards, e-transfers or cryptocurrency. Even if no money is lost, becoming a victim of such a crime can be stressful and traumatic.

Monica Deters, a crime analyst with Saskatchewan RCMP’s Crime Prevention/Crime Reduction unit, says they expect extortion cases to be even higher.

“A 200% increase is alarming – due to the sensitive nature of these extortions, we believe these files are likely under-reported to police,” Deters said. “Saskatchewan RCMP proactively monitors crime trends, and this allows us to inform the public when we see an emerging issue. Based on the statistics we’re seeing, we’re letting Saskatchewan residents know these extortions are happening, and that should be taking steps to protect themselves from these types of crime.”

RCMP recommend that some steps residents can take to ensure they are less likely to be a victim of restoration, such as being cautious with who you trust online, as “you never really know who you’re talking to online. Be aware that some scammers pretend to be others to earn your trust.”

Other tips include not sending intimate photos or videos for parents to monitor their child’s online activity, including their social media use and search history and having frequent conversations about online safety.

If you are a victim, the RCMP say to immediately stop talking to the suspect, deactivate (don’t delete) any social media accounts you are using to communicate with them, keep any record of conversations with the suspect, don’t send money or gift cards, and contact police.