A CBC report detailed a surge in online sextortion cases targeting Canadian teenagers, leading to tragic consequences, including suicide. The program, broadcast on CBC, investigated the “BM Scam,” a criminal operation originating in Nigeria where scammers create fake profiles to solicit nude photos from young people and then blackmail them for money.

The BM Scam: How it Works
The scam, which stands for 'blackmail,' involves scammers contacting victims – often through platforms like Snapchat and Telegram – and quickly building trust before requesting explicit images. Once obtained, the scammers demand money to prevent the images from being shared. According to the broadcast, scammers can ‘reel kids in within minutes.’

Carson Cleland’s Story
The report featured the story of 12-year-old Carson Cleland from Prince George, British Columbia, who died by suicide after being targeted by the scam in October 2023. His father, Ryan Cleland, recounted a prior conversation about sextortion, where he advised his son to come to him for help if ever faced with such a situation. Despite knowing what to do, Carson panicked and sent money to the scammers via a gift card before taking his own life. His sister, Michaela, discovered he had purchased the gift card after reviewing the police report.

Scammer Confessions
The CBC investigation went undercover into online forums used by scammers, who refer to themselves as “Yahoo Boys.” A former scammer, speaking anonymously from Lagos, Nigeria, admitted to participating in the BM scam, citing economic hardship as a motivating factor. He stated that finding employment in Nigeria is “very hard,” leading some to turn to cybercrime. Another former scammer, now a pastor, expressed remorse for his past actions and warned young Nigerians about the dangers of the scam, suggesting scammers may not fully grasp the devastating impact on their victims.

Calls for Accountability
The broadcast highlighted the need for greater responsibility from social media platforms. Cybercrime expert Paul Raphael stated that the primary leverage used by criminals is access to victims’ follower lists. He argued that platforms are “very resistant to block or prevent the creation of new fake accounts.” The program also featured grieving families calling for government action to address the issue.

According to the CBC report, dozens of online groups share strategies and information related to the BM Scam.