Less than a quarter of sextortion victims seek help, study finds
Fewer than one in four victims of sextortion (sexual extortion) in the Netherlands seek help, according to a new study by the Netherlands Center for Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR). Researchers warn that many victims remain hidden because of fear, shame and uncertainty.
The study found that a large number of people who experience sextortion do not report the crime or contact support organizations. Criminals often threaten to share private images or personal information, leaving victims feeling trapped and afraid of further humiliation.
Researchers say the emotional impact of sextortion can be severe. Victims frequently experience stress, anxiety and feelings of shame, which can prevent them from seeking assistance. Many worry that reporting the crime could make the situation worse or expose them publicly.
Sextortion usually begins online, with criminals building trust through social media, messaging apps or dating platforms before using private material as a tool for blackmail. Authorities have warned that offenders are increasingly using digital platforms to target victims and pressure them into paying money or following demands.
Experts say improving awareness and making support services easier to access are essential to encouraging more victims to come forward. They emphasize that victims should not feel responsible for the crime and that early reporting can help authorities investigate offenders and prevent further abuse.
The findings highlight a growing challenge for Dutch authorities as online crimes continue to evolve. Researchers believe more public education, stronger digital safety measures and better victim support are needed to tackle sextortion and reduce the number of people suffering in silence.