Webcam Hackers Blackmailed a Detroit Teenager into Pawning His Mother's Jewelery October 14 2013

You don't have to look like Miss Teen USA to be a victim of webcam hacking and internet blackmail.  This normal teenage boy fell victim to a criminal who extorted thousands of dollars from him after hacking his webcam.  Presumably he was doing things in his room he didn't want on the internet.  

Here is an except from a recent article in Vice

"According to reports, this scam is becoming increasingly common. Hackers trick someone into installing a remote access application, switch on their webcam when they’re doing something "indiscreet," then Facebook message them a copy of the video, and threaten to show it to their parents/significant other/boss/whomever the person in the video would least like to see it. In short, it’s a crime of that type of psychopathic genius I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.

In the case of Hector Hernandez, the scheme paid off to the tune of $1,700 in three installments, money he was able to get his hands on by pawning $100,000 worth of jewelry he stole from his family (which doesn't seem like a very good deal.) The scammers probably used a trojan horse to install the remote access tool or “RAT virus”, as they’re calling it on TV news, on Hector's computer. "

Webcam hacking is a serious issue that has the potential to affect all computer users, no matter age, sophistication, or looks.  Remember: it's better to be careful than to be blackmailed. Don't forget to cover your webcam.

NBC News: 'Ransomware' tricks victims into paying hefty fines April 26 2013