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Staying Safe Online: A Guide for Teens
1. What Sextortion Is
Sextortion is when someone online pressures, tricks, or threatens you into sending intimate images or videos — and then uses those images to demand more.
It’s important to know:
● It’s a crime
● It’s never your fault
● Anyone can be targeted, even smart and careful teens
Sextortion isn’t about mistakes. It’s about someone trying to manipulate you.
2. How Teens Are Targeted
People who try to sextort teens usually pretend to be someone your age. They often use tricks to make you trust them fast.
Common tactics include:
● Using fake photos to look attractive or friendly ● Sending quick compliments to make you feel special ● Asking to move to private chats where messages disappear
● Pushing for photos or videos early in the conversation
● Acting upset or demanding if you hesitate
Their goal is simple: build trust, then use pressure.
3. Early Warning Signs
Sometimes something feels “off” before anything bad happens. Paying attention to those feelings can protect you.
Watch for signs like:
● Someone asking you to keep the conversation secret ● Pressure to send photos or videos
● Requests to switch to apps where messages disappear
● Someone getting angry, pushy, or guilt‑tripping you ● A person who seems “too perfect” or moves too fast
If a conversation starts making you uncomfortable, you don’t owe anyone a reply. You can step away at any time.
4. How to Protect Yourself Online
You don’t need to be scared to be safe. A few simple habits make a big difference.
Ways to protect yourself:
● Keep your accounts private
● Only accept friend requests from people you actually know
● Be cautious with video chats, especially with strangers
● Avoid sharing intimate images — even with someone you trust online
● Use strong passwords and two‑factor authentication ● Think twice before responding to random messages ● If something feels off, trust your instincts and step away
These steps aren’t about being perfect — they’re about staying in control of your online space.
5. What to Do If It Happens
If someone tries to sextort you, the most important thing is not to panic. You are not alone, and you are not in trouble.
Here’s what to do:
● Don’t pay. Paying never makes the threats stop. ● Don’t send more images. It only gives them more to use.
● Don’t keep it secret. Tell a trusted adult right away. ● Save the messages. Take screenshots or keep the chat — this can help stop the person.
● Block the account. You don’t need to explain or respond.
● Report it. You can report to police or Cybertip.ca.
You haven’t done anything wrong. Someone else is trying to manipulate you, and adults can help you shut it down.
6. Supportive Messages You Need to Hear
If someone tries to sextort you, it does not mean you did something wrong. People who do this are skilled at manipulation — they target good kids, not “careless” ones.
You deserve to hear this clearly:
● You’re not in trouble
● You’re not to blame
● This happens to many teens
● You’re not alone
● There are adults who can help you through it
Shame is what keeps people silent. Reaching out is what keeps you safe.
7. Where to Get Help
If you ever feel pressured, scared, or unsure about something that happened online, reaching out is the strongest thing you can do.
Here are places that can help:
● Cybertip.ca — Canada’s tipline for reporting online exploitation
● Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868
● Text Kids Help Phone: 686868
● A trusted adult — a parent, teacher, coach, counsellor, or family member
You don’t have to handle it alone. There are people who will listen and help you stay safe.
Closing Message
You deserve to feel safe and respected online. If something ever makes you uncomfortable or scared, reach out to someone you trust. You’re not alone, and there are people
who will stand with you, listen to you, and help you through anything that happens.
Staying safe isn’t about being perfect — it’s about knowing you can always ask for help.
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