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Campus Announcements
Sextortion: What it is & Tips to Stay Safe Online - Part 2/2
Department / Organization: Institutional Equity & Title IX
Sextortion is a growing issue on campuses and across the country. So, how do we protect ourselves?
Tips to Prevent and Respond to Sextortion:
1. Remember that anyone can pretend to be someone else online.
2. Do not open attachments from anyone that you do not know and/or trust.
3. Be aware that anything shared online may be available to others. Do not send images of yourself that you want to remain private to anyone that you do not trust, no matter who they are –or say they are.
4. Turn off your electronic devices and web cameras when you are not using them to minimize a hacker’s ability to activate them remotely.
5. Ensure your applications and social networking sites privacy settings are set to the strictest levels. If you could use assistance with that, connect with Mines Information & Technology Solutions Support Center at (303) 384-2345. If you are having a cyber security issue, contact the Mines ITS Security team at security@mines.edu.
6. If someone threatens sextortion do not pay their demanded ransom.
7. If someone threatens sextortion, stop engaging with them immediately and document all communication with the individual who is trying to sextort.
8. Know that help is available and you are not alone. Seek help from Mines Public Safety and/or the Office of Institutional Equity & Title IX. The non-profit Thorn, operates a text help line for support dealing with sextortion. To access this resource, text "THORN" to 741741 to confidentially speak with a trained counselor.