10/17/2026
They’re not in trouble. They’re being targeted. Sextortion is a form of exploitation that uses fear, shame, and threats to manipulate children into sending sexual images, money, or more content. And it’s happening more often.
In 2025, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received more than 50,000 reports of financially motivated sextortion involving children and teens, an average of 137 reports every day.
For a child experiencing sextortion, those numbers don’t matter. What matters is the fear they’re feeling in that moment.
-They may be afraid they’ll get in trouble.
-They may feel ashamed.
-They may believe there’s no way out.
This is why our response matters.
If a child comes to you, listen. Believe them. Remind them that this is not their fault and that they are not in trouble. And don’t wait for something to happen to start the conversation. Talk to your children about online safety. Let them know they can come to you, without shame, blame, or punishment. Because when a child knows they have somewhere safe to turn, they’re more likely to ask for help. Talk early. Talk often. Let them know you’re there.
Source: National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)
