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Mounties are once again reminding parents and guardians to have a chat with youth about a growing trend of online exploitation in New Brunswick.

Codiac RCMP acting officer-in-charge Chantal Farrah said individuals are creating fake social media profiles for financial gain.

“They are using apps such as Snapchat and Instagram and they are using these profiles to befriend teenage boys between the ages of 15 and 17,” Farrah noted.

“Through befriending them, they convince them to share intimate images or videos of themselves. Then they proceed to blackmail them for money, gift cards and e-currencies.”

In a media release earlier this month, Mounties said these fraudulent profiles are being created by organized crime groups overseas and police are working with international law enforcement partners to further the investigation.

If you have been a victim of online extortion, you are urged to contact police.

If you have information related to the investigation, contact police, or Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.