The police are warning people not to send explicit photos of themselves to others online.

A spokesman said: ‘We’ve seen a sudden rise in sextortion cases over Instagram recently.

‘Our victims are falling foul to scammers after being charmed by dreamy photos and great banter. Unfortunately, after being tempted into sending a few cheeky snaps, they realise their flirty friend isn’t who they said they were.

‘Now they’ve got a ransom to pay to get the pics back, or they’ll be sent to everyone on their followers list. And no one wants that.

‘Our message is clear – if you’re going to send explicit pictures online, make sure you know who you’re really sending them to.’

To report such incidences, contact the Office of Cyber Security and Information Assurance https://www.ocsia.im/cyber-concerns-online-reporting-form/