Halifax police warn Facebook users to beware of unknown friend requests after recent scam

Received a Facebook friend request from someone you don’t recognize, lately?

Halifax Regional Police are warning Facebook users to be extra careful if they have, in light of a recent extortion scam.

Police say victims have been accepting friend requests from someone they don’t know, either male or female.

The suspect then befriends the victim and encourages them to send photos or videos of them performing sexual acts.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up

By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The suspect then attempts to blackmail them, threatening to post the photos or videos online and share them with the victim’s social media friends of they don’t hand over money.

Even if the victim has already handed over money, the suspects will continue to demand money.

Police say the scammers can be contacting people from anywhere in the world.

“Unfortunately, there are predators online who look to take advantage of people. Citizens should be aware that there is always a risk when sending intimate photos or videos, particularly to someone you don’t know or only know online, as you can never be sure of their motives,” said HRP in a release.

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Unfortunately, there are predators online who look to take advantage of people. Citizens should be aware that there is always a risk when sending intimate photos or videos, particularly to someone you don't know or only know online, as you can never be sure of their motives," said HRP in a release.

Police are asking anyone who thinks they have been a victim of this kind of scam to come forward by calling police at 902-490-5020 or by contacting www.crimestoppers.ns.ca.