POLICE are investigating five incidents of reported "sextortion" in Scotland against boys as young as 12.
The victims, all males aged between 12 to 17-years-old, have been financially blackmailed online after sharing intimate images with the suspects.
The police have warned that criminals use "the internet, social media and dating apps" to befriend individuals before using that position of trust to exploit them.
The five incidents have been reported in East Renfrewshire, with local area commander chief inspector Paul Daley saying: "Sextortion is blackmail and those targeted should not pay, nor should they be embarrassed or scared to report it to police.
"Criminals use the internet, social media and dating apps, to befriend people online and then threaten to share images to their family and friends for financial gain.
"People shouldn't panic. We want people to know they will be treated with respect and dignity and the circumstances investigated professionally.
"There is information available on the Police Scotland website on ways you can stay safe online – such as not sharing intimate images."
In a statement announcing the investigation, Police Scotland said: "Over the last week officers have received five reported incidents of sextortion from across the East Renfrewshire area.
"The victims are males and range in age between 12 to 17-years-old.
"In all the cases, the suspects have financially blackmailed the victims online.
"Officers are investigating these crimes and are urging the public to be cautious of what is shared online."
More information about the crime of sextortion, including support for victims, can be found on Police Scotland's website.
