Overview
Sextortion is a form of extortion that leverages sexual material or threats of sexual exposure to coerce victims. It broadly encompasses two primary modalities: the abuse of power by individuals in positions of authority to demand sexual favors, and the digital threat of releasing compromising sexual images or information unless demands are met. The former often occurs in contexts like employment, education, or government services, where officials exploit their power to exploit individuals. The latter, increasingly prevalent with the rise of the internet and social media, involves criminals obtaining or fabricating sexual content and threatening its public dissemination. This crime disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, particularly women and youth, and carries severe psychological and social consequences for survivors. Global estimates suggest millions are affected annually, with significant underreporting due to shame and fear.