by Cassandra Hager
It’s scarier than any horror film in recent memory. Sextortion: The Hidden Pandemic tells the story of a real-life terror targeting America’s kids. With the advent of social media and the influx of internet use brought about by the pandemic, children must constantly be vigilant; and that starts with education and prevention. Filmmakers Stephen Peek and Maria Demeshkina Peek spent years researching the rise in the disturbing trend of online predators targeting underage kids and found that there were 27 million reports of sextortion in 2021 alone.
The pair partnered with law enforcement to create the documentary in hopes of helping children stay safe online and arm them with the tools they need in case they find themselves becoming a target. A brave victim shares her story, giving a face to the millions who continue to suffer in silence. It’s a PG-rated film, so it’s appropriate for parents to view it with their children. While it’s not a comfortable watch, it’s an important one. 100 percent of proceeds of pre-order sales on iTunes will go to nonprofits fighting sextortion crimes in America.
Leave a Reply