Noor Says NoWhat is sextortion, and what do you do if it happens?
Sources reviewed on November 1, 2026. Based on public advice, see below.
Sextortion is blackmail: someone threatens to share a sexual image of a child and demands more images, or money. NCMEC says teenage boys are the most common targets in recent cases, so this is not about your 5-year-old today. What you build now is the habit of telling, which matters later.
What happens in sextortion?
NCMEC says children are threatened or blackmailed, most often with sharing a nude or sexual image of them, by someone demanding more content, sexual activity or money. Blackmailers often use fake accounts and stolen pictures. They may move quickly and ask for nudes soon after making contact.
What do you do if it happens?
NCMEC tells young people the following:
- The blackmailer is to blame, not your child. What they are doing is a crime.
- Get help before paying or doing what they ask. Paying rarely stops the blackmail.
- Report the account through the platform's safety feature.
- Block the suspect, but keep the profile and messages. They can help stop the blackmailer.
- Get images taken down through Take It Down and the CyberTipline.
In the US, call NCMEC at 1-800-843-5678. In the UK, call the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000, or Childline at 0800 1111 for children and young people. If a child is in danger, call 911 or 999.
What does this mean for a child of 4 to 7?
You don't need to explain sextortion to them. Stick to three habits: send nothing, show a grown-up, and you won't get in trouble. These are the same habits that help a teenager reach out later.
What is your reaction worth?
A lot. NCMEC notes that strong emotions can keep young people from reaching out for help. Say early and often: "Whatever it is, you can come to me." Read how to help your child tell you anything.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tell my 6-year-old about sextortion?
No need. Teach them not to send pictures and to show you anything strange. You can explain more when your child is older and has their own accounts.
Should we pay if it happens?
NCMEC says to get help before deciding, because cooperating or paying rarely stops the blackmail.
Keep reading
- What is online grooming, and how do you protect your child?
- An AI nude image of your child: what can you do?
- How do you help your child tell you anything?
All topics are in the overview of parents' questions. The big picture is in the guide How do you help keep your child safe online? A guide for ages 4 to 8. Want to practice this with your child? That's why the picture book Noor Says No was made.
Sources
Each source was read on November 1, 2026. These organizations are not connected to this site or the book.
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: Sextortion.
- National Center for Missing & Exploited Children: Is Your Explicit Content Out There?.
- Take It Down (NCMEC): How Take It Down works.
- GOV.UK: Report child abuse.
This is general information, not a replacement for professional help. Worried about a child? In the US, call or text Childhelp at 1-800-422-4453. In the UK, call the NSPCC at 0808 800 5000. Immediate danger: call 911 or 999.
