Sextortion Scams and the BM Boys: A Serious Online Threat You Should Know About
The internet has become a big part of our daily lives. From chatting with friends to watching videos, everything is just a click away. But just like the real world, the online world also has risks — and one growing problem is sextortion. A group known as the BM Boys has been making news for targeting people online, especially teenagers and young men. This blog will explain who they are, what they do, and how you can stay safe.
We’ll keep things simple and clear, so anyone can understand — especially our readers from India. You can find more updates like this on Nairaland, where we cover real issues in easy words.
What Is Sextortion?
Sextortion is a type of online crime where someone is blackmailed using private photos or videos. It usually starts with a friendly chat on social media. The scammer pretends to be someone they’re not — often a young girl or a love interest. After gaining trust, they convince the other person to share something personal, like photos or a video call.
Once they get what they want, the threats begin. They say they will post the video or send it to your friends or family unless you pay them money. Many people, especially students, panic and send money just to stop the blackmail. But often, the threats don’t stop even after paying.
Who Are the BM Boys?
The name “BM Boys” stands for “Blackmail Boys.” They are mostly young men from Nigeria who carry out these sextortion scams using fake profiles on social media. They act as if they’re someone else — usually a girl — and trap young boys and men into sharing private content.
Once they get hold of the pictures or videos, they demand money. If the victim refuses, they threaten to post it online or send it to family and friends. Some BM Boys even work in groups, sharing tips and tricks with each other to target more people. They are known to show off their illegal earnings on Instagram or Snapchat, flashing money, clothes, and even luxury cars.
These scams have become global, affecting people in countries like India, the USA, and many others. Nairaland regularly posts updates about such cases to help spread awareness.
How They Trap Their Victims
Here’s how these scams usually happen:
- Fake Account Created: The scammer makes a new social media account, using stolen photos to look like a real person, often an attractive young woman.
- Sending Friend Requests: They start adding people, especially boys and young men. Once the other person accepts, the scam begins.
- Building Trust: They start chatting casually, acting sweet and friendly. After a while, they flirt or ask for private chats.
- Request for Content: Slowly, they ask the victim to share private photos or video chat. The victim, thinking it’s harmless, agrees.
- The Threats Begin: As soon as they have something personal, the tone changes. The scammer demands money or else threatens to share the content.
- Pressure and Fear: The victim, scared of being exposed, often sends money. But the blackmail doesn’t always end there.
This pattern is common in many reported cases on Nairaland.
Why Is This a Big Concern?
This crime mostly affects young people. Students, especially boys, are often the target. They use the internet freely but may not always understand the dangers. What starts as fun or romance can turn into fear and panic within minutes.
Many victims are scared to tell their parents or the police. They worry about shame, blame, or getting into trouble. This silence helps the scammers win.
In some cases, the mental pressure has been too much. There have been reports of victims harming themselves or even taking their own lives. That’s why talking about sextortion is so important.
Keep following Nairaland for more real stories and safety tips.
How to Stay Safe from Sextortion?
Here are some simple things you can do to protect yourself and others:
- Think Before You Share: Don’t send private photos or videos to anyone online, no matter how friendly they seem.
- Don’t Talk to Strangers: Just like in real life, avoid chatting with people you don’t know online.
- Be Careful with Video Calls: Someone may record your call without your permission.
- Talk to Someone You Trust: If something goes wrong, tell your parents, a teacher, or a close friend.
- Report Fake Profiles: All social media platforms have options to report suspicious or fake accounts.
- Never Send Money: Paying the blackmailer does not guarantee that they will delete your content. They may come back asking for more.
What Are Police and Governments Doing?
Police departments in many countries are aware of the rise in sextortion cases. They are working with international agencies to catch these scammers. Some BM Boys have been arrested in joint operations between Nigerian police and global cybercrime teams.
Still, the internet has no borders, so the fight against online crime is not easy. That’s why the best thing we can do is stay alert and help others stay informed.
Final Words
Sextortion is a serious crime that is hurting many people, especially the youth. The BM Boys are using fake profiles, smooth talk, and fear to trap people into giving money. But the more we talk about this issue, the more we can stop it.
Remember, being aware is your first defence. Share this blog with friends and family, and talk openly about online safety. Speak up — don’t suffer in silence.
For more news and real-life stories about crime and safety, visit Nairaland, where we keep things simple, clear, and helpful.
