Cybersex blackmail arrests in Philipines

Police in the Philippines have said that they have arrested dozens of suspects linked to an online blackmail syndicate.

The suspects persuaded people in foreign countries to expose themselves in front of webcams or send explicit material, BBC News reported, citing police sources.

They then threatened to send the footage or photos to relatives unless payment was made.

Philippine National Police chief Allan Purisima said 58 people had been arrested in a probe involving Interpol.

"The modus operandi of this group is to create an online account on social networking sites with the purpose of locating and attracting prospective clients, especially old male individuals abroad," he said.

"Whilst they created this account they would pose as Asian attractive females.

"After getting acquainted with the victims... they'll invite and further entice their would-be victims to use video-call and engage in cybersex and this will be recorded, unknown to the victim."

The footage was then used to extort money, usually ranging from $500 (£296) to $2,000, he said.

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