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Sextortion scams are getting up close and personal
POV: You open your inbox to the creepiest email of all time. It’s addressed to you by name, and it starts like this:
“I suggest you read this message carefully. Take a moment to chill, breathe and analyze it thoroughly. ‘Cause we’re about to discuss a deal between you and me, and I ain’t playing games.”
The sender has some bad news
They say a hacker has compromised your computer and used your webcam to record you watching porn. They’re ready to send the video to all your contacts unless you pay a ransom within 24 hours. Conveniently, they’ve included a QR code to scan and pay right in the email.
It gets worse. Also in the email is a picture of your front yard and this note: “Is visiting [your exact street address] a more convenient way to contact if you don’t take action? Nice location btw.”
Uh, cue the panic, right? To finish things up, they tell you if you reply or tell anyone, the compromising video will be sent to your contacts immediately.
This example isn’t just for show — it’s the real deal. Sextortion scams are out of control and getting even more personal.
An alarming uptick
Folks are reporting receiving that exact email, including images of their street or front yard. The images appear to be snagged from Google Maps or another source online.
The messages may also claim malware was installed on your computer or phone and the sender is watching everything you do. To make things even more believable, they may include a password you’ve used before that was leaked in a data breach.
Sit the family down and discuss these kinds of scams now. If everyone is aware of how they work, your family is that much safer. And if you do get an email like this, don’t panic and don’t respond.
Blur your house online
It’s so unsettling to see your home in a message like this. Take a step now to deter them from targeting you.
For Google Maps:
- Open Google Maps or the Street View gallery and look up your address.
- Tap the Street View photo you want blurred. In the bottom right, click Report a problem. Complete the form and click Submit.
For Apple Maps:
- You need to email MapsImageCollection@apple.com directly. Give your address and ask for your house to be blurred.
- Include additional details of the property, if applicable, so Apple knows exactly which house to censor.
✅ This is such important information. Use the share icons below to help your family and friends know this scam is spreading.
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Tags: Apple, computer, family, Google, malware, scams
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