NEWS RELEASE WELLINGTON COUNTY OPP
(WELLINGTON NORTH TOWNSHIP, ON) – Police are warning residents about sextortion scams after a close call for a local victim.
Sextortion is a form of extortion where a blackmailer uses the threat of publishing or sending intimate images or videos to contacts unless the victim meets their demands.
On December 14, 2025, at approximately 1:00 p.m., a member of the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to a report of extortion after a local resident had been communicating with an unknown suspect via a popular social media platform. The victim ended up sending the suspect nude photos.
Shortly after, the suspect threatened that if the victim did not send them money, they would retaliate by sending the nude photos to their friends and family. Thankfully, the victim immediately blocked the suspect, reported their account to moderators and contacted police.
The Wellington County OPP would like to remind residents to follow safe internet practices. Do not engage in conversations with strangers and do not share intimate images online.
If something similar should happen to you, immediately stop all communication with the person and do NOT comply with the threats. Contact police who can provide advice on the next steps to take. Also, keep copies of the messages and information such as the username, social media account, etc.
For more information on frauds, you can visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
The OPP can be reached anytime at 1-888-310-1122.
Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip on-line at www.csgw.tips. You may be eligible for a reward from Crime Stoppers of up to $2,000
