A former TV meteorologist from Nashville, Bree Smith, is speaking out about her experience as a victim of an online sextortion scam. She recently appeared on "CBS Mornings" to share her story and describe her efforts to combat the attackers who manipulated her image into explicit content to extort money. According to the FBI, this type of scam has victimized tens of thousands of Americans in the past year. Smith's ordeal began when she discovered that her photographs had been altered and used to create pornographic images and videos. These were then circulated online, and scammers demanded payments in exchange for not distributing the material further. The emotional toll of such an invasive and malicious attack cannot be overstated, but Smith is determined to stand up against it. Online sextortion involves hackers using various methods to obtain intimate or explicit images and videos, often by manipulating existing photos or coercing victims into providing them. Once they have these materials, the perpetrators threaten to share them widely unless their financial demands are met. This can lead to severe psychological distress and social repercussions for the victims. The scale of the problem is significant. The FBI reported that last year alone, there were tens of thousands of cases in the United States, highlighting the growing threat of digital manipulation and cyber extortion. Despite the prevalence of these crimes, many victims remain reluctant to come forward due to fear of further exposure and stigma. Smith’s decision to speak publicly is a bold step toward raising awareness about the issue. She emphasized the importance of educating people on how to protect themselves from online scams and reported the incident to law enforcement agencies. Her story serves as a cautionary tale and a call to action for both individuals and authorities to take proactive measures against cybercriminals. To help prevent such attacks, experts recommend several steps. First, always maintain strict privacy settings on social media and other online platforms. Second, regularly update passwords and use strong, unique ones for each account. Third, be wary of unsolicited messages or friend requests, especially from individuals who seem too eager to form a relationship quickly. Finally, if you suspect that you’re being targeted, report the incident to the appropriate authorities immediately and consider seeking legal advice. Bree Smith’s courage in sharing her experience is crucial in the fight against online sextortion. By speaking out, she not only helps others understand the risks but also encourages them to take steps to safeguard their digital identities and personal information. Her story underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration between individuals, law enforcement, and tech companies to combat this pervasive and harmful practice.