The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has launched a social media service aimed at raising awareness and supporting children and young people facing online sexual blackmail and sextortion.

UNICEF experts said sextortion poses a growing threat to children and young people who use social media platforms and messaging apps.

Sextortion occurs when criminals threaten to share sexual chats, intimate images or videos unless victims provide more sexual content or money.

UNICEF said the consequences can be serious. Many victims remain silent because they feel ashamed, frightened or threatened, or do not know where to seek help.

AI Creates New Sextortion Risks

UNICEF also highlighted risks linked to artificial intelligence.

The agency warned that so-called “nudify” applications and generative AI tools can create fake intimate images of young people.

Criminals can potentially use such images to threaten or blackmail victims, even when the victim never created or shared an actual intimate photograph.

UNICEF also warned that perpetrators are not always strangers.

Ronaldo Targets 1,000 Goals While Chasing More Nations League Glory

Friends, former partners and other people known to victims can also misuse intimate material or threaten to distribute it.

UNICEF Urges Parents to Keep Communication Open

The agency urged parents and caregivers to create an environment where children can report online abuse without fear of punishment.

UNICEF said parents should listen to children and reassure them that they will receive support if they report an incident.

The agency also noted that sharing intimate or partially nude material can create additional risks when others misuse or distribute the content.

Fear, shame and anxiety can seriously affect young people’s well-being after sextortion.

Some victims may also experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide, making timely support particularly important.

Victims Can Seek Help

UNICEF advised children and families to seek help from appropriate local services if sextortion occurs.

Depending on the country, support may come from police, schools, child-protection services or dedicated helplines.

The agency also highlighted free services such as Take It Down, which can help prevent or limit the online spread of intimate images involving minors.

UNICEF said awareness and open communication can help children recognise threats and seek assistance sooner.

The agency urged parents, caregivers and communities to focus on support rather than blame when children report online sexual exploitation or blackmail.