UK users of Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook are facing a new email threat that could result in significant consequences if ignored. Action Fraud has recently issued a warning regarding a surge in ‘extortion scams’ targeting email users.
In February 2025, there were only 133 reported instances of these malicious emails, but the numbers spiked to 2,924 reports in March.
The fraudulent emails typically allege that hackers have monitored the victim’s computer activity, claiming to have evidence of visits to adult websites. Some victims are even threatened with the release of compromising videos, supposedly captured through their device’s camera while browsing. The scammers demand a ransom to prevent the distribution of the footage.
What is particularly alarming is that these new scam emails often contain personal details such as legitimate passwords and home addresses. According to Action Fraud, these details are likely sourced from previous data breaches.
A victim shared his encounter with an extortion email demanding a $500 payment. Recognizing the scam, he deleted the emails. However, he later discovered unauthorized access to his social media and bank accounts, prompting him to suspect hacking activities.
Detective Chief Inspector Hayley King, the Head of Prevention at the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, emphasized the sophistication of these scams, with criminals using leaked personal information to enhance the credibility of their phishing attempts.
If recipients suspect receiving a phishing email, Action Fraud advises forwarding it to report@phishing.gov.uk and deleting it promptly. Victims of extortion should contact local law enforcement, even if they fear the possession of compromising images. It is crucial not to engage with the scammers but to report the emails for investigation.
Furthermore, the presence of genuine passwords or personal details in phishing emails may indicate previous data breaches affecting the user. In such cases, it is recommended to change any shared passwords immediately.
Users are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious emails to prevent falling victim to these extortion scams.