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How American Teenagers Are Targeted in ‘Sextortion’ Scams, Sometimes With Deadly Consequences
How American Teenagers Are Targeted in ‘Sextortion’ Scams, Sometimes With Deadly Consequences
Brad and Kari Boettler hold a photo of their late son, Evan, in their home in Aurora, Mo., on March 23, 2026. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
Brad and Kari Boettler hold a photo of their late son, Evan, in their home in Aurora, Mo., on March 23, 2026. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times
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How American Teenagers Are Targeted in ‘Sextortion’ Scams, Sometimes With Deadly Consequences

Those who follow the trending online crime say social media platforms can and must do more. But ultimately, the best prevention begins at home.
Premium Reports

How American Teenagers Are Targeted in ‘Sextortion’ Scams, Sometimes With Deadly Consequences

Those who follow the trending online crime say social media platforms can and must do more. But ultimately, the best prevention begins at home.
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By Michael Clements
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April 09, 2026Updated:April 09, 2026

AURORA, Mo.—Kari Boettler could not comprehend what she found on her late son’s cellphone on Feb. 5, 2024. She was searching the metadata to determine why 16-year-old Evan had shot himself in their backyard that January.

Sitting on the sofa in the same living room in which Evan had just celebrated Christmas with his family, only feet from the spot where he died, Boettler tried to make sense of the explicit photos and threatening text messages she found on Evan’s smartphone.

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