A recent warning from the local police detachment about the growing threat of sextortion has prompted the Vernon-based Oak Child and Youth Advocacy Centre to remind residents they provide support for children, youth, and families who may be victims.

Oak Centre Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ a program under the Archway Society for Domestic Peace Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥“ is a partnership of multiple North Okanagan-based agencies who work together to provide a collaborative response to children, youth, and their families, who have experienced abuse, sexual assault, or witnessed a crime.

Crimes against children and youth can take many forms such as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, including sextortion and online exploitation. There is increased concern for young men and boys aged 13-15, who seem to be recent targets online.

So what is sextortion?

It's a form of blackmail where sexual content is used to benefit, usually financially, from a victim. 

It starts typically when the victim is contacted by someone who coerces the victim in providing nude or sexual images, or videos. They then threaten to share the images or videos unless their demands for money, or more content, are met.

Ï㽶ÊÓƵֱ²¥œWe want to ensure that young people and their parents have support if this crime happens to them," said Oak Centre manager Brooke McLardy. "You do not have to navigate this on your own."

McLardy encourages parents, caregivers and the community at large to learn about how to protect themselves.

"There are a number of organizations who have great resources to help parents, caregivers, children, and youth safely maintain an online presence," she said.