A United States federal court has sentenced a 21-year-old Ghanaian national for his role in a $200 sextortion scheme carried out through the social media platform Snapchat, authorities have confirmed.
According to court documents, the convict used fake online profiles to befriend victims, primarily young individuals, before coercing them into sharing intimate images. He later threatened to publicly release the images unless payments were made, extorting hundreds of dollars from multiple victims.
Prosecutors told the court that the scheme caused significant emotional distress to victims, some of whom feared reputational damage and long-term psychological harm. The fraudulent activities were uncovered following coordinated investigations involving US law enforcement agencies and digital forensics experts.
At sentencing, the judge described the crime as serious and exploitative, stressing the need for deterrence in an era where online platforms are increasingly used for cybercrime. The court imposed a custodial sentence along with financial penalties and restitution orders.
US authorities reiterated warnings to the public—especially young social media users—to remain vigilant online and avoid sharing sensitive content with strangers.
The case adds to growing concerns about online sextortion rings operating across borders, with law enforcement agencies intensifying efforts to track and prosecute perpetrators involved in digital exploitation.
