A United States federal court has sentenced a 21 year old Ghanaian national, Cross Abu Cole, for his involvement in a large scale online sextortion scheme that targeted victims through the social media platform Snapchat.
According to court records, Cole was part of a network that used fake online profiles to contact victims, primarily young people. Prosecutors said the suspects persuaded victims to share intimate images and videos during online interactions.
Once the material was obtained, victims were allegedly threatened with public exposure unless they paid money. Authorities said the threats were often accompanied by screenshots of victims’ contact lists or social media accounts to increase pressure.
Investigators said more than 200 victims were linked to the scheme. Some victims were based in the United States and other countries, making the case an international cybercrime investigation.
United States law enforcement agencies traced digital evidence linking Cole to the operation. Prosecutors told the court that financial records, online accounts, and electronic communications showed his involvement in the extortion activities.
Cole pleaded guilty to charges related to cyber enabled extortion. The court imposed a custodial sentence and additional penalties, the details of which were outlined during sentencing. Authorities did not disclose whether restitution would be paid to victims.
The court noted the serious psychological and emotional harm caused by sextortion schemes. Prosecutors said such crimes often leave victims fearful and distressed long after the financial demands end.
United States officials reiterated warnings about online safety and urged social media users to be cautious about sharing personal or intimate content online. They said investigations into related sextortion networks remain ongoing.