What to do if blackmailer threatens to release your nudes

The digital age has brought incredible opportunities and new forms of danger.

One such threat is sextortion, a form of blackmail where someone threatens to release another person’s nude or explicit photos unless their demands are met, often involving money or more images.

In Nigeria, where laws on privacy and cybercrime continue to evolve, victims often face not only fear and shame but also a lack of clear recourse.

Experts, however, are unanimous: never give in to the blackmail. Here are five expert-backed steps to take immediately if someone threatens to leak your nude photos:

Do not panic or pay the blackmailer

The instinct to panic or comply is common, but counterproductive. Experts warn that giving in rarely stops the cycle.

“Once a blackmailer knows you’re willing to give in, they keep coming back,” says Selena Onuoha, human rights lawyer. “Paying won’t protect your dignity; it often makes things worse.”

She urged victims to stay calm, gather their thoughts, and focus on documenting the threat instead of reacting impulsively.

Secure all evidence immediately

Take screenshots of all communication, from chats, emails, DMs, and back them up, advised Onuoha.

She also advised the victim to note the time, date, platform, and, if possible, the username or contact information of the blackmailer.

“Digital evidence is key,” explains Mr Olumide Akpata, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association. “Without it, law enforcement will have difficulty tracing the source and establishing a case.”

Also, save links, file metadata, or anything that shows the blackmail attempt.

Report to law enforcement or cybercrime authorities

In Nigeria, THE Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.)  Act of 2015 criminalises threats, extortion, and invasion of privacy. Victims can report to the Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and the Cybercrime Reporting Portal on https://report.ncc.gov.ng.

“We’ve seen a rise in digital blackmail, especially among young people,” says ASP Olufemi Ajisafe (retd.). “Victims should not keep silent. The earlier we are informed, the easier it is to intervene.”

Get legal, mental health support

Onuoha advised victims to involve a lawyer to help draft a cease-and-desist letter or advise them on court options if necessary.

She said, “Many legal aid groups also offer free support. Equally important is mental well-being.”

“Victims of sextortion suffer intense shame, depression, and suicidal thoughts,” warns Dr Usen Essien, renowned psychologist and researcher based in Akwa Ibom.

He added, “Talking to a therapist can help restore control and reduce emotional harm.

Local NGOs, such as Stand to End Rape and Mirabel Centre, provide counselling and victim support services.

Educate yourself and take preventive steps

While victims are never to blame, awareness is critical. Never send nudes under pressure. Use platforms that allow content to vanish or encrypt messages, but even then, be cautious.

Also, check if your photos have been leaked using tools like Google Reverse Image Search, PhotoDNA (used by platforms like Facebook to block explicit content). Also, enable two-factor authentication on all social media accounts and report impersonators or suspicious activity immediately.

Essien noted that shame and silence are what predators count on. But he stressed that victims were not alone, and help was available.

“The most powerful thing a victim can do is speak up,” he added. “Let the law and the system work for you.”

If you or someone you know is a victim of sextortion, call the National Human Rights Commission Hotline or visit your nearest police station’s cybercrime desk.