'I'm Watching Your Dirty Behavior': Blackmail Scam Targeting MD Gmail Users

MARYLAND — A new email scam is targeting Maryland residents by threatening to publicly release their internet browsing history in exchange for large sums of money, authorities said Wednesday.

According to Maryland State Police, authorities received several reports of internet-based scams targeting Gmail users in August and September. Police said the victims reported the scammers sent emails containing photos of their homes from Google Maps and demanded victims send them money via Bitcoin.

According to police, the scammers are attempting to blackmail victims by threatening to publicly release their personal information or online browsing history.

NBC Washington obtained the contents of some scam emails. In one, the scammer sent a picture of the victim's house with the words, “I’m watching your dirty behavior.”

Other emails that were sent included "Been keeping tabs on your pathetic life for a while now" and "It’s just your hard luck I came across your bad deeds," according to NBC Washington.

The Maryland State Police continue to investigate these scams. Residents should be cautious of unsolicited emails sent to their Gmail accounts.

Here are some ways to protect yourself from internet scams:

• Be careful with links and websites: Don’t click on links in emails or on websites that you don’t trust. Malicious websites can look similar to legitimate ones. Look for slight variations in spelling or logos.
• Don’t share personal information: Don’t share personal or financial information online unless you’re sure the website is secure.
• Stop, breathe, and ask: Often scammers rush potential victims and push lots of emotional buttons to get you to stop thinking rationally. Never let strangers force you into fast decisions.

Those who believe they have been the victim of a scam are encouraged to contact their local police department or the closest Maryland State Police barrack.

If you believe you have fallen victim to any type of online crime, file a complaint at ic3.gov.