UTC Police Department warns of sextortion scam targeting college students
MGN
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Police Department (UTCPD) is warning students and locals about a sextortion scam that is targeting college students.
They say they have investigated cases involving this scheme, with incidents ranging in severity.
The UTCPD says the scam works by:
- Unknown individuals connect with students on dating apps or social media.
- They build a false sense of trust and engage in online relationships.
- Once explicit images or videos are exchanged, the suspect demands money or more images, threatening to release the content publicly if the victim refuses.
In order to protect yourself, the UTCPD suggests being cautious with who you meet online, never sharing explicit media, reporting threats of violence or pressure and adjusting social media privacy settings to limit who can contact you.
They warn scammers often use fake profiles.
If you are a victim, they say:
- Do not pay or comply. Giving into demands often leads to more threats.
Screenshot and document any messages and threats. - Report it to UTCPD immediately by calling (423) 425-HELP/4357 or visiting the UTC Police Department at the Administrative Services Building (400 Palmetto Street) or other local law enforcement agency.
- Report to the Office of Title IX Compliance for support by submitting a report at utc.edu/report, or by calling (423) 425-4255.
- Seek support. UTC and the Chattanooga/Hamilton County community offer a variety of resources
The UTCPD also shares some resources students and locals can contact if needed:
- UTC Resources
- UTCares: (423) 425-CARE/2273.
- Counseling Center: (423) 425-4438.
- Office of Student Outreach & Support: (423) 425-2299.
- Office of Title IX Compliance: (423) 425-4255.
- Chattanooga / Hamilton County Resources
- Chattanooga Police Department – Victim Services: (423) 643-5351.
- District Attorney’s Office for the 11th Judicial District – Victim/Witness Coordinator: (423) 209-7400.
- Partnership for Families, Children, and Adults – Rape Crisis Center: (423) 755-2700.
