The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is alerting residents to a recent spike in blackmail scams involving demands for cryptocurrency, specifically Bitcoin.
Police revealed that in these alarming scams, victims have reported receiving text messages from unknown numbers threatening to release compromising photos or personal information unless they comply with payment demands.
The RVIPF strongly advises against responding or engaging with these messages, as scammers use intimidation tactics to coerce individuals into paying.
“Engaging with these messages only increases vulnerability,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis, urging those targeted to report incidents directly to the RVIPF.
The RVIPF’s guidance includes taking proactive steps to enhance online privacy and avoid sharing personal information on social media, where scammers often source material. The police force is actively investigating the blackmail cases and encourages anyone receiving suspicious messages to avoid responding and contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
The public is reminded that reporting these scams can aid in protecting the community and halting similar schemes.