جمعية خبراء الحاسوب المغربية تُطلق “مرصد المحتوى الرقمي”
جمعية خبراء الحاسوب المغربية تُطلق “مرصد المحتوى الرقمي”

Digital Content Observatory Warns of Rising Blackmail via Instant Messaging Apps

The Digital Content Observatory has reported a concerning rise in digital blackmail cases occurring through instant messaging applications, amid a growing use of these platforms by a wide range of age groups and a lack of sufficient awareness about the risks they entail.

According to the Observatory’s monitoring efforts, blackmail attempts typically begin through fake accounts that reach out to users with friendly messages or enticing content, which then escalate into threats to publish photos or personal information obtained through fraudulent means.

The Observatory pointed out that apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram are commonly used in these schemes, largely due to their private nature and the difficulty in tracking encrypted messages.

In light of this trend, the Observatory has called for raising awareness, especially among youth, urging users to avoid sharing personal information or private photos with unknown parties. It also emphasized the importance of reporting any blackmail attempts immediately and promoting digital literacy as a key preventive measure.

This warning comes amid a broader increase in unsafe digital practices, which the Observatory views as a clear indicator of the urgent need for more effective mechanisms to ensure both individual and collective digital safety.

Source: Fes News Media

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