sextortion

[ seks-tawr-shuhn ]

noun

1. criminal behavior in which a perpetrator illicitly obtains sexually compromising material, such as images, and then threatens to publish it or harm the victim in other ways unless further material or a sum of money is surrendered.

Word History and Origins

Origin of sextortion¹

First recorded in 1945–50; sex ¹( def ) + (ex)tortion ( def )

Example Sentences

The parents of a British teenager who took his own life after becoming a victim of sextortion have made a direct appeal to criminals in Nigeria to stop "terrorising" the vulnerable.

From BBC

Sextortion often involves victims being sent a nude picture or video before being asked to send their own in return.

From BBC

He described sextortion as like an “industry” and admitted he treats it like a game.

From BBC

Mark and Ros told BBC News they had a message for any young person who finds themselves a victim of sextortion.

From BBC

Sextortion has become big business in Nigeria involving thousands of young men nicknamed “yahoo boys”.

From BBC