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Police alerts public of increase in blackmail scams

November 5th, 2024 | Tags: blackmail scams fear tactics RVIPF police
Multiple residents, according to police, have reported receiving alarming text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically bitcoin, accompanied by threats to release compromising photos or personal information if they did not comply. Photo: finance.yahoo.com
Police said scammers often use fear tactics to coerce people into paying, and engaging with them only increases vulnerability. Photo: VINO/File
Police said scammers often use fear tactics to coerce people into paying, and engaging with them only increases vulnerability. Photo: VINO/File
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is alerting the public to a recent increase in blackmail scams.

Multiple residents, according to police, have reported receiving alarming text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically bitcoin, accompanied by threats to release compromising photos or personal information if they did not comply.

The RVIPF "strongly advises" individuals who receive these messages not to respond or engage in any way.

Fear tactics

Police said scammers often use fear tactics to coerce people into paying, and engaging with them only increases vulnerability. Instead, residents are urged to report these messages directly to the RVIPF for investigation and guidance.

Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis states, “The RVIPF is actively investigating these cases to protect the residents in our communities. We urge residents to report any suspicious messages and avoid interacting with unknown or threatening contacts.”

To minimise exposure to such scams, the public is encouraged to use strong privacy settings, especially on social media, and refrain from sharing personal information online.

For support or to report a blackmail attempt, please contact the RVIPF’s intelligence unit at 368-9339.

8 Responses to “Police alerts public of increase in blackmail scams”

  • Schups (05/11/2024, 13:41) Like (13) Dislike (13) Reply
    These Moo Moo can't catch criminals on the ground right under their nose but asking us to report cyber criminals? HAHAHA!!!!
  • BLACK MALE (05/11/2024, 16:12) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
    IS THAT WHAT DEM BOYZ WAS TRYING TO DO SIN D?
  • LOL (05/11/2024, 19:35) Like (7) Dislike (0) Reply
    Island to broke to pull this kind of scam
  • Norris Turnbull (06/11/2024, 00:03) Like (6) Dislike (0) Reply
    Country going down the wrong slope
  • Huh? (06/11/2024, 08:12) Like (8) Dislike (0) Reply
    They barking up the wrong tree. where we going get crypto and bitcoin from?
  • Obeah (06/11/2024, 23:30) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Mess around my place and see I what will happen to you all. I will make hair grown in the palm of your hands and under you feet
  • Police have issued warnings to the public regarding a noticeable rise in blackmail scams. These scams often involve threats to release compromising information or fabricated evidence unless victims pay a specified amount, typically in cash or through cryptocurrency for anonymity.


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