The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Office is warning of an online “sextortion” scam targeting local youth.
A news release from the agency Tuesday afternoon stated that the scam involves a fake account posing as a teen girl named “Kate” that has been contacting young males in the area via social media platforms.
The perpetrator behind the scam sends friendly or flirty messages to their targets before asking them to send their personal information and/or explicit photos of themselves. Once the images are shared, the scammer threatens to release them unless the teen sends more or pays money.
Anyone who has been contacted by “Kate” or a similar account is encouraged to report it to the Sheriff’s Office or call the agency’s non-emergency line at (209) 533-5815.
The Sheriff’s Office also offered the following internet safety tips for teens and their parents:
Teens
• Never share explicit photos, even with someone who “seems real” or your age.
• If someone pressures you or makes threats online, stop engaging immediately and talk to a trusted adult.
• You won’t get in trouble with us for asking for help.
Be on the lookout for red flags
• Someone you (or your friends) have never met in person who suddenly engages with you on social media.
• Anyone who pushes the conversation into sexual topics early on.
• Pressure for private photos or keeping secrets.
• A stranger online giving you a lot of attention quickly — especially romantic or sexual — is a major red flag. Pause and question their intent.
Parents
• Talk openly with your teens about online safety.
• Remind them that anyone can pretend to be someone they’re not.
• Let your teens know they can come to you with any situation.
• These predators know how to pose as peers to gain trust — they operate quickly, often within minutes or hours.
• Know who your teen is interacting with online, just like you would in real life. Check in regularly about their social media, gaming platforms, and messaging apps — many of these platforms now offer parental tools to help you stay informed and involved.
