Sextortion

This is sexual extortion or online blackmail where criminals threaten to share sexual pictures, videos, or information they allegedly have about you. Their intention is to obtain money from you or compel you to do something else. However, there is no assurance that they will fulfil any agreement made. Victims feel devastating shame, embarrassment, and hopelessness even if the images are not of them. Seek help if you have been targeted.

Have clear moral boundaries which you will not cross regardless of peer pressure or from your inner desires. Protect yourself by avoiding exposing your body to anyone, except to your spouse or for specific medical purposes, and refrain from photographing or distributing compromising images. Furthermore, refrain from disclosing personal information on social media platforms to prevent potential misuse by individuals with malicious intent.

Paul’s words to Timothy were, “Set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in [sexual] purity” (1 Tim 4:12). He also said, “Think about the things that are moral and pure” (Phil 4:8).