Full Notification

The Upper Macungie Township Police Department's Crime Division has recently seen an upswing in reports of an online blackmail scam that is currently targeting residents in our area.

Typically, victims are contacted via email or message apps (like Facebook Messenger) by a subject who claims that he/she possesses video of the victim performing a sexual act. The subject claims that he/she has acquired the video by taking control of the victim's webcam camera. In another variation of this scam, the subject claims that he/she has installed spyware on the victim's computer and has recorded the victim watching pornography.

Of course, the scammer wants money- and will instruct the victim to pay them, either by Western Union, gift cards, etc. Don't fall for it! Delete these emails and messages immediately. While you're at it, make sure your security settings are up to date on your computer. If you do have a webcam, you may want to cover the lens when it is not in use.


Thanks and as always...be safe!

Lt. Peter Nickischer