Opportunists may attempt to create a blackmail situation from a thin premise.  This might include overhearing a sensitive conversation and attempting to exploit it or possessing photos of a sensitive nature and looking to expose them if demands are not met.  Assessing the situation requires being honest and introspective. Ask yourself about how damaging the information is, and whether the blackmailer poses a real threat to you. Some things to consider are:  Is your employment at risk?  Would release of information endanger your ability to maintain reasonable employment? Are you endangering someone else? Even if you are unharmed, would someone else suffer physical or emotional damage as a result of the blackmail? What is the worst thing that could happen?  Real blackmail poses more than an inconvenience.  It can create irreparable harm, either physically or emotionally.  Based on who is involved in the blackmail scheme, assess what is the worst-case outcome. Ask yourself whether that outcome is severe enough not to ignore. It is unfortunately too common that blackmail comes from people we know and once trusted-- friends, fellow students, ex-partners, even family. When we are close to the blackmailer, it can make it difficult to approach law enforcement for relief.  When it is someone we know, it is frequently a form of "emotional blackmail," extorting closeness or prolonging a relationship to prevent information from being exposed.  This is still blackmail and you are entitled to protection under the law. If the threats being made could impact your physical safety, you must inform law enforcement at once.  Even if no immediate action is taken, having the threats on record can help your case if legal action is ever needed. If the person blackmailing you is threatening to reveal your sexuality or gender identity and you need to talk to someone specifically about your feelings about those aspects of your identity and any stress they might be causing you, you can contact the LGBT National Help Center.  Please be aware, however, that they cannot assist directly with the blackmail itself.  They are volunteer support counselors, not legal experts, and are not a substitute for the authorities. When faced with a problem, our own anxieties can cause us to exaggerate the situation. At times like this, it is a good idea to get the advice of a trustworthy and honest person.  A trustworthy person could be a religious leader, a friend, or a therapist. Getting an outside opinion can bring perspective to the situation. Even if they are unable to help you find a solution, there is an emotional benefit to knowing you are not facing this situation alone. If you recognize that the information does not pose a significant threat, reveal the information yourself before your blackmailer has the opportunity.  This removes any leverage the blackmailer possesses. It demonstrates your strength through honesty and taking personal responsibility. It will invoke sympathy and support in your friends and family. Coming clean lets you control the narrative surrounding the information, exposing the blackmailer for their negative intentions. Maintain legible photos or transcripts of all contact between yourself and your blackmailer.  Save voice mails and record phone conversations. This is all information that an attorney or law enforcement will need to determine if your case can be prosecuted. If after assessment, the information poses too great a threat to be revealed, contact law enforcement.   Law enforcement is trained to know how to create a case against your blackmailer. Law enforcement can ensure that you are protected from any threat of physical harm. Although it may be painful, law enforcement may ask you to prolong the negotiation with your blackmailer. This is because, in many jurisdictions, blackmail requires written or recorded evidence of threat, along with request for payment. Be sure to do what the police tell you to do, even if it seems difficult or hurtful at the time. Law enforcement will be able to tell you whether a lawyer can protect your interests.  Lawyers have a thorough understanding of the legal system and may be able to suggest solutions that others would not be aware of. With reasonable grounds, an attorney can successful prosecute blackmail, ensuring jail time for the perpetrator. Do not behave rashly or seek revenge.  The crime of blackmail is serious and carries heavy penalties on its own. By injuring, persecuting, or otherwise attempting to harm the blackmailer, you implicate yourself in criminal activity and diminish the likelihood of receiving justice.
قيّم الموقف. خذ موقفًا من المبتز حتى لو كان شخصًا تعرفه. تحدث مع صديقٍ تثق به. انتزع النفوذ. احتفظ بكل الأدلة التي تُثبت تعرضك للابتزاز من قبل هذا الشخص. تواصل مع هيئة قانونية. استعن بمحامٍ. لا تتولَّ زمام الأمور وحدك.