In recent weeks, police in Amsterdam have received numerous reports of students being extorted. Through the social media platform Snapchat, youths are messaged that they have caused inconvenience and must pay a ‘fine.’ If the victims do not comply, they or their families are threatened with harm.
A police spokesperson noted that while threats are often general, the suspect sometimes appears to know family members. The demanded amounts can reach hundreds of euros, and some victims have paid these ‘fines.’ Victims may be offered ‘discounts’ if they provide names of other youths, who are then also targeted.
Reports have primarily come from Amsterdam Zuid, but other areas of Amsterdam are also affected. Young victims are urged to contact authorities if they receive such messages.
The police advise victims to photograph the message with another device, as Snapchat notifies the sender of screenshots. The investigation began after numerous reports and complaints and is ongoing.
Source: NOS