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State and Federal Sextortion Laws

"Sextortion" is loosely defined as "the practice of using intimate information (for instance, copies of sexting photos) to elicit more explicit photos or videos, or to coerce the victim into engaging in unwanted sexual acts."

As of December 2011, there are no federal or state statutes that apply specifically to the crime of sextortion. However, extortion is a crime in all fifty states and under federal law, and it is likely that the crime of sextortion is covered by those statutes. Where there is some question as to the applicability of a particular statute to the crime of sextortion, it will be noted in the comment section.

THE FINE PRINT: The contents of this page and of this Web site are offered for informational and research purposes only, and do not constitute legal advice. If you are concerned that any of these laws may apply to you, a family member, or a friend, you are urged to consult with an attorney licensed to practice in your jurisdiction to determine the current state of the law. While every effort has been made to keep this list of statutes current, PLEASE consult with an attorney before taking any action based on the information you read here.