Watch Out: Trending Scam Targeting Michigan Children

There's a new scam targeting children here in Michigan, and parents everywhere should be concerned with this one.

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The topic is sextortion.

New Scam Targeting Michigan Children

Sextortion is one of those scams that can happen almost anywhere online, whether it’s a social media platform, messaging app, or even through online games. What makes it so dangerous is how easily predators can reach out.

Sometimes, the scam starts with an immediate threat, where the criminal claims to already have a compromising photo or video and demands more images—or else. That’s enough to terrify anyone, especially a young person.

These scams tend to start more insidiously. A kid thinks they’re talking to someone their own age, maybe someone interested in them romantically or offering something exciting.

It feels safe, until the predator gets what they’re after—a single picture or video. That’s when the threats start. The predator demands more, threatening to post what they’ve already gotten or, worse, threatening violence. And the cycle begins.

The worst part is the psychological toll this takes. Kids often feel too scared or ashamed to tell anyone what’s happening, and that’s exactly what these criminals are counting on. The fear and confusion can trap victims, keeping them silent even though the abuse keeps getting worse.

If a young person is being exploited, it’s important to remember they’re the victim of a crime and should absolutely report it. Reach out to your local FBI field office, give them a call at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submit a report online at tips.fbi.gov.

The FBI has people who are specifically trained to help victims of crimes like this. Their Victim Services Division is there to provide support, and it’s crucial to know your rights if you’re dealing with sextortion, especially if your images have been shared online. Don’t hesitate to seek help—you’re not alone in this.