Paedophiles ‘using Fortnite to lure children into sending them explicit pictures and perform sexual acts’

Paedophiles are said to be using video game Fortnite to blackmail youngsters into sending them explicit content.

According to Canadian Police, scammers have been targeting children via Instagram with promises of cheat codes and guidance for the massively popular online game.

In return, children are being asked for naked photos or video footage of themselves performing sexual acts, according to Quebec Police Force, Régie intermunicipale de police Richelieu-Saint-Laurent.

The force said in a statement: ‘Suspects who use fake avatars successfully integrate groups of friends from where they launch the offer, and thus privately trap their victims.’

They explained how blackmailers would demand sums of money in return for keeping the explicit material away from public view.

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Police spokesperson Luc Roberge told PC Mag that youngsters playing other games including Minecraft have also been targeted by scammers.

Quebec Police Force have advised children to avoid interacting with any strangers who approach them online.