TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 105 - Youth Scams and Sextortion: Protecting Young People Online

March is Fraud and Scam Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the growing threat of scams and fraud in today’s digital world. As technology continues to evolve, scammers are finding new ways to target people online and increasingly, young people are becoming a focus. In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci is joined by Matthew Johnson, Director of Education at MediaSmarts, to discuss youth scams, online fraud, and the importance of digital literacy.Together they explore common scams affecting young people, how fraudsters use social media and messaging platforms to build trust, and the warning signs that something may not be what it seems. The conversation also takes a closer look at sextortion, a growing form of online exploitation, and what young people and families should know about recognizing and responding to these situations. Through education and awareness, people can better understand the tactics scammers use and learn how to navigate digital spaces more safely.