Most computers come equipped with a web cam. As a matter of fact it is difficult today to buy a computer without a web cam. The problem with a web cam on a personal computer is that computers can be hacked remotely. Hacked means someone from the outside uses another computer to control another computer.

When a computer is hacked and a web cam is turned on remotely the people in the room may not be aware he or she is being watched. With computers being so portable and easy to carry most people keep their net books or laptops in the same room they are in, including the bedroom.

Web cams are being remotely accessed, secretly monitoring and videotaping people especially teens dressing and undressing. Later the person responsible for hacking into the computer later email the person and threaten to publish the pictures online unless the teen provides the person with even more explicit pictures.

This act of threatening and demanding is called extortion, or in this type of case sextortion. Unfortunately many teens are unsure of what to do in this kind of situation so he or she often will give into the predator’s demands. So what can teens and parents do to prevent this type of situation.

First, if you do not plan on using your web cam take a small piece of black electrical tape and cover the lens. Second, tell children, especially teens what to do and who to tell if anyone tries to force them to do something that makes them feel uncomfortable.

In addition these cases need to be reported to authorities so that the predator can be caught and stopped. Electronic media is advancing daily and situations like this one are only the tip of the iceberg. Remember to beware of what your electronic media is capable of doing and know what to do if you run into a situation you are uncomfortable in and notify an adult immediately.

Contact authorities if someone tries to extort money or demand sexual acts from you after secretly taping you from your own webcam. Do not allow people to blackmail you.