COLUMBIA, S.C. — FBI officials in South Carolina say they're seeing more reports of sextortion schemes targeting children.
The FBI's latest warning says they've seen increased reports of adults on social media and online games posting as kids to coerce children into sharing sexual images and videos.
After receiving the images, the perpetrators tell the child they'll post them online if they don't send them money. Investigators say young boys between the ages of 14 and 17 are the primary target of these schemes.
"The victims of these crimes may be afraid to come forward, so it's important to have open discussions with your children about their activities online," FBI Columbia Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic said.
The FBI says parents should tell their children to be careful when sharing anything online, especially with strangers.
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