The Anti-Cybercrime Group of the Philippine National Police (PNP) warned netizens against social media users posing as modeling and fashion agents, citing cases of sexual exploitation as the usual motive.

PNP-ACG director Sidney Hernia specifically advised parents to monitor the activities of their minor children who are usually the target of the sex predators who have been exploiting the social media.

Hernia issued the warning following the arrest of a man who tricked a minor into sending nude photos and later used them for blackmailing that includes demand for a huge sum of money.

The suspect allegedly sent a message that the minor victim has the looks and body to become a model.

Convinced as the victim is eager to join the showbiz industry, he was tricked into sending his nude photos by the suspect who claimed that such photos are needed to convince their clients to hire him.

Later, Hernia said the suspect used the photos to demand a meet-up and a huge sum of money. This prompted the victim to seek the assistance of the police with his parents.

The suspect was arrested in an entrapment on April 4 in Malabon City.

Police have immediately filed cases of violation of RA 11930, or the Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act, and Article 286 (Grave Coercion) of the Revised Penal Code, both in relation to Section 6 of RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).

Hernia then advised parents to guide their children in making safe decisions: “If your child experiences online abuse, take immediate action to protect them.”

“Remember, your child's safety comes first, and by offering support, you can help them recover from the ordeal of harassment and teach them how to stay safe online,” he added.