Palos Park, IL – Police in Palos Park are warning parents and teens after an 18-year-old male fell victim to an online sextortion scam that investigators say unfolded on a social media app.
According to the Palos Park Police Department, the victim was contacted by someone posing as a female on the “Yubo” app and was asked to share explicit photos. Within 48 hours, the scammer allegedly demanded payment, threatening to release the photos publicly if the victim didn’t comply.
Authorities described the case as part of a growing national trend known as “sextortion,” where predators manipulate victims—often minors or young adults—into sending explicit images, then use them for blackmail. Police noted that scammers frequently use fake accounts or embedded messaging apps to target victims.
“This tragedy didn’t happen in our county—but cases like this are happening everywhere,” police wrote in a community alert. “Teens and adults alike are at risk.”
The department urged parents to stay alert by checking children’s phones and discussing online safety, especially on apps that allow direct messaging, video chatting, or live streaming.
“If your child becomes a victim of sextortion, remind them they are not alone,” police said. “There is help, and there is hope.”
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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