Characteristics of Cyber Sextortion in India: Content Analysis of Online Newspapers Published in 2019–2021

Abstract

Introduction: Smartphones and Internet connection help people to stay connected to virtual social media where predators may disguise and obtain intimate text, audio, photographs, and video from the victim. These are then used to extort money, sexual act, or any other favors. Aim: We aimed to observe the characteristics of cyber sextortion in India in recent years (2019–2021). Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study conducted in February 2022. The cases of cyber sextortion reported in newspapers between 2019 and 2021 were considered for qualitative analysis. The cases were thematically analyzed by 2 authors individually and a consensus was reached for the finalization of the finding. Results: Social media and dating applications are used to lure the victims to exchange sexual text, intimate photo, or video. The contents are saved and used as a tool to extort money, sexual acts, or other favors. The males are commonly extorted for money but females are extorted for money and sexual acts. The victim may be called for a sexual act in a place and a group of extortionists may appear in the scene. Exchange of text messages or audio calls are also recorded for extortion. Personal intimate contents obtained from remote access of device or access through a third person or morphing videos are also used for sextortion. Conclusion: Social media engagement and a desire of exploring sexual relations with unknown persons expose the victims for sextortion. Storing and sharing intimate content should be avoided even when in trusted relations to minimize the risk.