Skip to main content

'You have no idea what I'm capable of,' New disturbing email extortion scam threatens victims

Email scam under investigation. (File Image) Email scam under investigation. (File Image)
Share

Police are sounding the alarm about scammers taking extra steps to intimidate and threaten victims into handing over their money with yet another email extortion con.

South Simcoe police say officers have received multiple reports about threatening messages claiming the recipient had been caught visiting explicit websites and demanding a Bitcoin payment to prevent having the compromising material shared.

Along with the unsettling message, police say the scammer provides a screenshot of a Google map street view showing the individual's residence and other personal information, like their name and phone number, to further rattle the intended victim.

The email states in part, "You have no idea what I'm capable of ... I don't play games."

It continues, "I can look at everything on your screen, flick on your cam and mic, and you wouldn't have a clue. Oh, and I have got access to all your emails, contacts and social media accounts too."

Police urge the public to avoid falling victim to this scam and report it online.

They encourage residents to be mindful about sharing personal information on social media sites, which scammers can access, including dating sites.

The authorities also recommend keeping online passwords secure, setting up two-factor authentication, and avoiding engaging with or replying to phishing scams.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Secret tomb found under 'Indiana Jones' filming location in Petra

At the heart of the ancient city of Petra, Jordan, carved into pink sandstone cliffs, lies an elaborate monument known as the Khaznah, or the Treasury. And buried beneath that edifice, archeologists recently discovered, is a tomb with at least 12 human skeletons and artifacts that are estimated to be at least 2,000 years old.

Stay Connected