What To Do When a Blackmailer Threatens To Leak Your Nudes: A Survival Guide For The Digital Age

In today’s hyper-connected world, our lives are increasingly lived online. From WhatsApp chats to Instagram selfies, the digital footprint we leave behind is immense. But with this unprecedented connectivity comes a darker side — one that many aren’t prepared for until it’s too late.

One of the most frightening threats to emerge in recent years is sextortion — a form of blackmail where a person is coerced into paying money or providing more explicit content under the threat of having their private images or videos exposed. It’s a terrifying experience that preys on fear, shame, and the desire to protect one’s reputation. And unfortunately, it’s on the rise — not just globally, but here in Nigeria too.

Whether the images were shared willingly during a trusted moment or were taken without your knowledge, no one deserves to be blackmailed. And most importantly: you are not alone.

Understanding the Crime: Sextortion Isn’t Just a Private Shame — It’s a Criminal Offense

In Nigeria, sextortion is punishable under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015. Threatening to leak nudes, demanding money, or blackmailing someone using private materials constitutes a criminal offense. Yet, despite the law being clear, victims often feel paralysed by shame, cultural judgment, and fear of disbelief — especially in a society where discussions of sexuality are still largely taboo.

But let’s be clear: this is not your fault. And there is help.

Here are five essential steps you must take if someone is threatening to leak your nude or explicit photos:

1. Don’t Panic, Don’t Pay — It Only Fuels the Abuse

When fear hits, the instinct to comply is overwhelming. But experts say giving in rarely stops the threats — it often escalates them. Once you pay, the blackmailer sees you as a source of income and may keep returning with new demands.

Human rights lawyer Selena Onuoha explains it best:

“Paying a blackmailer doesn’t guarantee safety — it signals vulnerability. It’s like feeding a predator hoping it won’t bite.”

Instead: Take a breath. Collect yourself. Begin documenting.

2. Secure the Evidence — Every Screenshot Counts

Before blocking the blackmailer or deleting chats, preserve every piece of evidence. Take screenshots of messages, calls, emails, images, usernames, and any links they send.

Former Nigerian Bar Association President Olumide Akpata stresses:

“Digital evidence is the backbone of any investigation. Without it, legal action becomes almost impossible.”

Pro Tip: Email copies to yourself and store them in a cloud backup (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) in case your phone is lost or compromised.

3. Report to Authorities — Silence Protects the Criminal, Not You

Don’t let shame keep you quiet. Report the incident to your nearest cybercrime desk or use official channels like:

• Nigeria Police Force Cybercrime Unit

• National Human Rights Commission

• NCC Cybercrime Reporting Portal: https://report.ncc.gov.ng

Retired ASP Olufemi Ajisafe notes:

“The earlier we are informed, the easier it is to intervene. Victims should not delay — blackmailers move fast.”

4. Get Legal and Emotional Support — You Don’t Have to Face It Alone

This is a deeply emotional violation, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. But don’t stay isolated.

Contact a lawyer, especially one experienced in cybercrime or human rights. Many organizations offer free legal aid and can draft cease-and-desist letters or help initiate legal proceedings.

Equally vital is your mental health. Dr Usen Essien, a leading Nigerian psychologist, warns that victims often suffer from depression, PTSD, and even suicidal ideation.

“Healing begins with support. Therapists and support centers like Stand to End Rape or Mirabel Centre can help restore control.”

5. Learn and Protect — Prevention Is Power, Not Blame

Let’s be clear: no one deserves to be blackmailed, no matter the circumstances. However, education helps prevent future incidents.

• Avoid sharing nudes, especially with people you don’t fully trust or haven’t met in person.

• Enable two-factor authentication on all your accounts.

• Regularly Google your name and images to check for unauthorized use.

• Use tools like Google Reverse Image Search to spot photo leaks.

• Be wary of impersonators, suspicious DMs, or requests for private content.

Predators feed on silence and shame — but awareness and boldness scare them away.

You Are Not the Crime — The Blackmailer Is

If you or someone you know is facing this nightmare, remember: you are not a victim of your own choices — you are a victim of someone else’s crime. Nigeria’s legal system is slowly catching up with the digital world, but your first line of defense is your voice.

Speak up. Take action. Seek help. And never allow anyone to weaponize your body against you.

Need Help? Start Here:

📞 National Human Rights Commission Hotline
🌐 https://report.ncc.gov.ng
👥 Stand to End Rape Initiative
🏥 Mirabel Centre (Lagos) — Free counselling and medical support