Explicit images and videos used to extort university student, say Guelph Police

(Pexels)

Guelph Police are urging people not to share personal and intimate images with strangers after someone tried to extort a University of Guelph student.

The 18-year-old man told officers he shared explicit photos and videos in an online chat with an unknown individual.

The student then received messages threatening to share them with his friends and family.

According to the victim, some of his photos and videos had been sent to several Instagram accounts.

Police did not say if the student paid the extortionist.

“Residents are reminded not to share personal details or intimate images online, as these can be captured and used in the commission of crimes,” investigators warned in a media release.

Victims of fraud and attempted fraud are urged to report all incidents to their local police department, as well we the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.