Porn Scams

Good morning and welcome to Fraud Fridays! Before we begin, a content warning, this post will contain content and themes that many readers will find disturbing. There are mentions of sexual themes and predatory behavior. Discretion is advised.

Today, we are covering Underage Porn Scams. This is, naturally, an uncomfortable topic for many, but seeing as many people have fallen prey, it is important we cover it.

What is it? The underage porn scam, sometimes referred to as underage girl scam, will often target younger men. It has often circled around the ranks of the military as well. That does not mean that you ladies are completely safe from it. This scam is a catfishing scam with a spritz of blackmail. The scammer will go on popular dating sites/apps to begin posing as someone (usually of the opposite sex, and same age range as their mark). They will claim that they are over 18. Then, the catfishing begins. They will be looking to trade nude photos and sexts.

Here's a little advice. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

After exchanging photos, they will usually fall silent. While you try to figure out what you did wrong, the next part of their plan sets in motion.

You get a call. On the other end is an angry person claiming to be the boy or girl's father, a police officer, or a private investigator. Turns out the person you were allegedly sexting is underage, and their parents want some money for various reasons, such as to pay for a new phone, to pay for therapy, etc. Of course, you have only been in contact with the same scammer the entire time. You were being catfished by a scammer.

What to do if you are a victim of this scam: stop picking up the phone when the scammers call. Do not pay them, or they will be after you for more money.

How to avoid it:

The simple way? Don't send nudes or sext. Both are better in person.

Alternatively, make sure you video call, or even better, meet them in person and verify their age before engaging in any sort of activity.