Arlington Students Targeted In Social Media Scam

ARLINGTON, MA — The Arlington Police Department is working with the school district to raise awareness about a social media scam that is reportedly targeting students.

According to police, scammers are contacting children through social media platforms. They are reportedly sending nude photos through applications such as Instagram and Snapchat to them and requesting the students send them the same thing in return. Once the scammers obtain these images, they demand money from the student threatening to release the photos if they do not comply.

Police Chief Julie Flaherty said that several students in the district have become victims to the scam. The department is urging students not to respond to any threats or send money under any circumstances. In addition, it are encouraging students to end all communication with the scammer and block them, and report the encounter to the police.

“We encourage families to have open and honest conversations with their children about the risks of sharing personal content online. We also encourage caregivers to monitor their teens’ social media accounts,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Elizabeth Homan said. “It is essential for students to know that they are not alone and that help is available if they are victimized.”