A 25-year-old British Nigerian man, Bosun Osagie, has been sentenced to two years and three months in prison for hacking a woman’s social media accounts, using her photographs to create fake profiles and blackmailing her.
Osagie, who lives in Bexley, south-east London, was sentenced on Monday, October 12, after pleading guilty to computer hacking and blackmail, according to Merseyside Police.
The case began in February 2023 when police received a report that the victim’s Snapchat and X accounts had been compromised. Her photographs were allegedly used to create fraudulent accounts that advertised her as a sex worker, while her images were also offered for sale online.
The woman was subsequently blackmailed, prompting an investigation that led to Osagie’s arrest and prosecution.
The court also imposed a 10-year restraining order prohibiting him from contacting the victim.
Detective Sergeant Darren Devonport of Merseyside Police said Osagie’s actions had caused the woman deep distress, describing the offences as an invasion of her privacy followed by an attempt to extort money from her.
He commended the victim for reporting the incident and said the force remained committed to tackling the possession and distribution of indecent images.
The case highlights the growing threat of online abuse, in which criminals exploit hacked accounts, stolen photographs and false identities to intimidate victims and demand money.
British authorities warn that social media hacking can expose victims to further crimes, including impersonation, fraud and blackmail. The national Report Fraud service advises users to strengthen account security with strong passwords and two-step verification.
The case also comes amid wider concerns about the treatment of victims of image-based abuse. A report published by The Guardian on October 7 highlighted concerns that police investigations into alleged revenge porn offences remain inadequate, with campaigners calling for improved support and stronger responses to reports of abuse.
Police.uk advises victims of online sexual blackmail not to blame themselves and to report threats to the authorities. Victims are also encouraged to preserve relevant messages and account details where possible.
