The Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT) has urged the public to remain vigilant about the increasing incidence of online sexual extortion.
The crime involves threatening to publish a person’s private or sensitive photographs and videos unless money or other unlawful benefits are provided.
SLCERT said anyone could become a target through social media, messaging applications, dating platforms and online games. In many cases, perpetrators first build close relationships with victims, gain their trust and obtain private material before demanding a ransom.
The agency also warned that victims are being threatened with fabricated obscene images created using artificial intelligence, commonly known as deepfakes.
SLCERT advised victims not to communicate further with perpetrators or make any payments. They should preserve all evidence, including threats, messages and photographs, without deleting them, and seek guidance from relevant authorities before blocking or reporting the accounts involved.
The agency further urged the public to exercise extreme caution when sharing personal or sensitive information online.
SLCERT emphasized that victims of such crimes are not at fault and should promptly inform the authorities without allowing fear or intimidation to prevent them from seeking assistance.
