Do not pay or negotiate under pressure
Stop all direct communication if safe to do so
Save every message, email, photo, account name, phone number, and payment request
Take screenshots and back up evidence in multiple places
Change passwords for all important accounts
Enable two-factor authentication on email, social media, banking, and cloud accounts
Check for compromised devices and run security scans
Lock down privacy settings on social media
Tell a trusted person what is happening
Report the blackmail to the platform, website, or app being used
Report the threat to local police or cybercrime authorities
Contact a lawyer if money, images, or sensitive data are involved
If the blackmail involves intimate images, report it immediately to the relevant platform and authorities
If you are in immediate danger, contact emergency services
Do not send more personal information
Do not click suspicious links or open unknown attachments
Preserve original files and metadata if possible
Document dates, times, and any demands made
Ask the blackmailer once, in writing if needed, to stop contacting you
Block the blackmailer after preserving evidence
Monitor your accounts and credit for suspicious activity
Consider a new phone number or email address if harassment continues
Seek support from a crisis hotline or victim support service if you feel overwhelmed