UPPER MARLBORO, Md. – The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Robbery Unit has issued a community-wide warning concerning a notable increase in extortion cases linked to social media interactions.
Most cases involve suspects and victims meeting online, leading to victims being coerced into sending explicit images that the suspects then use to extort money.
To date, the department has received 19 reports of such extortions this year, expecting the numbers to exceed 30. Comparatively, there were 23 cases reported throughout 2023 and only two in 2022.
Victims often feel ashamed or fearful of seeking assistance, but the department emphasizes its commitment to supporting victims and thoroughly investigating these crimes.
Victims should call 911 to file a police report and report the suspect’s social media account to the platform. They should also save the suspect’s profile information and messages to aid in identification, and block the suspect to prevent further contact.
Anonymous tips can be submitted via the Crime Solvers website at www.pgcrimesolvers.com, the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-866-411-TIPS (847
