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About
An independent anti-extortion network — what it stands for, why it exists, and how it works.
About the network
Why AEN exists, what it does, and the limits it works within.
Online extortion is common, it is deliberate, and it is designed to make the person on the receiving end feel isolated and rushed. AEN exists because that isolation is the point of pressure — and because people facing it deserve somewhere clear to turn that treats them as a victim rather than a case file.
The network raises awareness so people can recognize extortion earlier, supports victims in understanding what options are open to them, organizes information about incidents responsibly, and works alongside trusted partners and communities so that responses improve over time.
AEN's commitment to victims is straightforward: you will be treated with dignity and without judgment, sensitive information will be handled responsibly, and you will never be pushed toward confrontation or retaliation.
Everything the network does is bounded by responsible action and collaboration. Where a situation needs expertise, reach or authority that AEN does not have, the right answer is to work with those who do — platforms, partner organizations, and the appropriate authorities.
Educating people about online extortion and helping people recognize warning signs.
Helping victims understand their options and directing them toward appropriate resources.
Responsibly organizing information relating to incidents.
Reviewing information and publicly available material where appropriate and lawful.
Helping relevant information reach appropriate platforms, organizations, or authorities.
Working with trusted organizations and communities to improve responses to online extortion.
AEN is not law enforcement.
AEN is an independent organization. It holds no policing powers, makes no arrests, and is not a substitute for reporting a crime to the authorities in your country. Where a matter belongs with law enforcement, we will say so.
Our mission
Victims should be treated with dignity, respect, and without judgment.
AEN does not encourage retaliation, harassment, hacking, or vigilantism.
Sensitive information should be handled responsibly.
Claims and information should be handled carefully and responsibly.
We work alongside trusted partners and organizations when additional expertise or support is needed.
If you are experiencing online extortion, you don't have to navigate it alone. AEN works with trusted partners to provide victims with a pathway toward reporting and support.
Victim reporting is provided in partnership with CyberShield.help.
AEN is an independent organization and is not a law-enforcement agency.