ASP reports rising sextortion cases involving children

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KAIT) – Arkansas State Police reports the number of children falling victim to online sextortion is on the rise.

“Children as young as seven are being targeted online,” said Sergeant Corwin Battle, commander of the Arkansas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Battle said in a Monday ASP news release that ICAC received 169 sextortion reports in 2024.

“Already in 2025, Arkansas has received 170 sextortion reports, exceeding last year’s total with half the year still ahead,” he said. “The threat is real, but it’s different from what many of us grew up worrying about.”

The ICAC Task Force encourages parents, caregivers, and the community to enhance their strategies for child safety, including implementing these updated safety rules:

• Old Rule: Don’t talk to strangers in public.
• New Rule: Don’t talk to strangers online—even if they seem friendly or say things you like.

• Old Rule: Never get into a car with someone you don’t know.
• New Rule: Never click on links or accept friend requests from people you don’t really know.

• Old Rule: If something feels wrong, find a trusted adult right away.
• New Rule: If something feels wrong online, tell a trusted adult immediately.

• Old Rule: Don’t share your home address or phone number.
• New Rule: Don’t share personal details like your school, hometown, or photos online.

• Old Rule: Don’t take candy from strangers!
• New Rule: Don’t accept gifts, money, or promises from people online—no matter how good it sounds.

If you or your child encounters suspicious online activity or potential threats, report them to local law enforcement or the Arkansas State Fusion Center at 501-618-8001.

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