CRITICAL THREAT · Consumer Fraud

FTC Halts Deceptive 'Sextortion Assistance' Scheme

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has filed a lawsuit against Digital Forensics Corporation and its CEO, Dmitry Belkin, for allegedly operating a fraudulent 'sextortion assistance' scheme that defrauded victims of at least $60 million. The company falsely promised to identify perpetrators, stop the spread of intimate images, and coordinate with law enforcement, but often failed to perform these services while charging fees ranging from $1,499 to $20,000.

10/17/2026DigitalForensics.comBlackmailHelpline.comCyberBlackmail911.comSecurityBreach911.com

Warning signs

Companies promising guaranteed removal of intimate images for a high fee
High-pressure sales tactics exploiting the victim's fear and urgency
Requests for large upfront payments (ranging from $1,499 to $20,000) for 'investigative' services
Claims of being able to track down anonymous foreign cybercriminals
Lack of verifiable results or delivery of promised investigative reports

What you should do

Report the sextortion threat directly to the online platform where the images were shared
Use the Take It Down tool at TakeItDown.ftc.gov to request the removal of intimate images
Report the fraudulent service provider to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Preserve all evidence, including messages, contracts, receipts, and advertisements from the service provider
Contact local law enforcement if you are a victim of a crime

The FTC alleges that Digital Forensics Corporation, along with affiliated entities, exploited individuals already in crisis by using fear-based tactics to sell ineffective 'Phase 1' recovery packages. According to the complaint, the company frequently failed to deliver on its promises, provided fake investigative reports, and used high-pressure sales tactics to extract additional payments. A federal court has granted the FTC's request to temporarily halt the company's operations. Consumers are advised to avoid services that promise quick fixes for sextortion and to utilize official, free resources for removing non-consensual intimate imagery.

Sources

https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2026/10/how-avoid-deceptive-sextortion-assistance-services-and-find-real-help https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/10/ftc-sues-operator-sextortion-relief-scheme-misleading-consumers-believing-it-would-identify https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/investigations/ftc-lawsuit-alleges-cybersecurity-company-defrauded-customers-out-of-60-million-sextortion-related-services