Q: Online drug purchase scam and extortion concern
I attempted to buy drugs online two days ago, and the person took my money without delivering anything. Now, they're demanding more money. I've had previous interactions with this person and have text messages and Cash App records of our transactions. I haven't contacted authorities yet. Should I be worried about legal repercussions or further threats from this person?
A:
It’s understandable that you're feeling concerned about this situation, especially if the person is now extorting more money from you. First, you should know that purchasing drugs illegally can result in serious legal consequences, even if you were scammed. However, you should also be aware that the person you interacted with is likely breaking the law by taking your money without delivering the goods and by attempting to extort you for more money.
The best course of action is to stop any further communication with this individual. Keep all the records of your interactions, including texts, payment information, and any threats they’ve made. These can serve as evidence if you decide to report the matter to authorities.
You should report the incident to local law enforcement or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Extortion is a serious crime, and the authorities can help protect you from further threats or harassment. While you might be worried about potential legal repercussions, reporting the scam could help resolve the issue and prevent further damage.
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