In recent weeks, an LFE apprentice and club staff member have been the targets of attempted blackmail and extortion, with sums of up to £10,000 demanded.
LFE would like to warn apprentices of a potential online extortion scam that has been reported to the local authorities involving an under-18 player and a club staff member.
The scam involves a group of ‘females’ luring victims into taking and sharing intimate images, before threatening to publish the images onto the internet if they do not comply with their demands for money. The offenders are most likely part of an organised crime gang/group.
It is believed that the victims have been targeted via a dating app with the motive being financially driven, as well as threatening to ruin the professional careers of the victims.
If any apprentice has received a message of this nature, please report it to a club staff member or your club’s designated Safeguarding Officer.
You can also access support and report concerns to:
• Family
• CEOP (www.ceop.police.uk)
• Report Harmful Content (www.reportharmfulcontent.com)
• PFA Well-being Helpline ([email protected] and 07500 000 777)
We would like to remind apprentices to remain vigilant online and refrain from sharing any images of an intimate nature. For tips and advice on how to stay safe online, please watch the video below.
