
Gone are the days when extortion was only the plot line of crime dramas—today, these threatening tactics target anyone with a smartphone. As AI makes fake voices and videos sound and look real, high-pressure plays like sextortion, deepfakes, and virtual kidnapping feel more believable than ever before, tricking even the most digitally savvy users. Gen Z and Millennials are most at risk, accounting for two in three victims of extortion scams. These scammers prey on what’s personal, wreaking havoc on their victims’ privacy, reputations, and peace of mind.

Our latest research shows that one in three mobile users has been targeted by an extortion scam, and nearly one in five has fallen victim. Gen Z is hit hardest: more than half (58%) have been targets, and over 1 in 4 (28%) have been a victim. Sextortion—threatening to leak nude photos or videos or expose pornographic search history— is particularly notable, with one in six mobile users reporting they’ve been a target. Among Gen Z, that number jumps to 38%.
Five things to know about mobile extortion scams
1. Who’s most at risk: Gen Z and Millennials with a risk tolerant profile
Compared to victims and targets of other types of mobile scams, extortion victims tend to be younger, male, and mobile-first. Their profile:Young: 69% of victims and 64% of targets are Gen Z or Millennial (vs. 52%/40% of victims and targets of other types of scams, respectively)
Male: 65% of victims and 60% of targets are male (vs. 48%/45%)
Parents: 45% of victims and 41% of targets are parents (vs. 36%/26%)
Minorities: 53% of victims are non-white (vs. 39%)
Mobile-first: 52% of victims and 46% of targets agree “I’m more likely to click a link on my phone than on my laptop” (vs. 42%/36%)
However, this simply shows how targets and victims skew. Behaviors typically play a bigger role in overall risk.
2. What the damage looks like: emotional and deeply personal
Extortion criminals use personal, high-stakes threats in their scams. Victims and targets of extortion scams in our survey report experiences ranging from scammers threatening to expose nude photos and videos to claims that a family member was in an accident.
These personalized, high-pressure threats make extortion victims especially vulnerable, and while victims of all mobile scams suffer serious emotional, financial, and functional fallout at the hands of their scammers, extortion victims experience outsized impact: Nearly 9 in 10 extortion victims reported emotional harm because of the scam they experienced
35% experienced blackmail or harassment
21% experienced damage to their reputation
19% faced consequences at work or school
Even when targets don’t fall victim, the threats alone can cause emotional harm:
“I didn’t lose anything, I was just scared because they wanted to inform all my friends, family, and employers how perverted I was because I supposedly watched porn.”
—Gen Z survey respondent, DACH region

3. Why it’s getting worse: AI is raising the stakes
AI is increasingly good at making fake feel real, giving criminals even more of an advantage when manipulating and extorting victims. One in five mobile users has been the target of a deepfake scam and nearly as many have encountered a virtual kidnapping scam (a decades-old tactic that now often uses AI voice cloning). Two in five (43%) Gen Z users have been a target of one of these.
Who AI scams hit: Victims and targets skew Gen Z and iPhone users with a deep digital footprint. This could leave their personal information, images, or even voice more accessible to cybercriminals who want to use it as part of a scam.Gen Z: 45% (vs. 31% for extortion victims and targets overall)
iPhone users: 62% (vs. 51% overall)
Data sharers*: 81% (vs. 71% overall)
*Agree with the statement: “I understand that sharing personal information with apps, on social media, or on messaging services can be risky, but I am okay with that risk”

So why might exposure be higher for Gen Z? Digital natives are most entrenched in mobile-first behavior and most active in low-oversight casual commerce (DMing for deals, using buy/sell/trade groups, clicking on ads to purchase or download, sending money for a future service). They also show up more on alternative platforms like Discord, Tumblr, Twitch, and Mastodon, where identity checks are lighter and parasocial trust runs high, creating a sweet spot for scammers.
“The scammer makes you believe it is a legit conversation. They/He/She talk to you like they know you. Trying to convince you they are supporting/helping you in some way to fix something. When they are just fishing for more information!”
— Gen Z US Survey Respondent
For victims of AI-driven scams, the fallout is even more extreme: 32% suffered reputation damage (vs. 21% for extortion victims overall), 29% suffered work/school consequences (vs. 11%), 24% had their personal information stolen (vs. 14%), and 21% had financial accounts opened in their name (vs. 13%), underscoring the threat of these evolving scams.
4. Where the risk lives: constant, cross-channel exposure
Scammers know the more they approach a target, the more likely they are to create a victim. 78% of extortion victims and 63% of targets experience scam attempts daily (vs. 44%/36% in other scam groups), driving alert fatigue and making it more likely that a scammer will slip through the cracks.
Extortion victims and targets also over-index on using informal buying and selling channels—spaces like social media where identity is fuzzy, protections are lacking, and decisions are quick. Being in more casual spaces more frequently increases the odds of a scam landing for anyone.
5. How mindset shapes risk: overconfident and under-protected
Seven in ten extortion victims say they’re confident they can spot a scam, more than half believe they could recoup any financial losses, and most trust their phone’s safety features. At the same time, many victims and targets simply don’t worry about mobile scams at all, resulting in a lack of protective measures. Adoption of security basics (security software, strong/unique passwords, multi-factor authentication, timely system updates, permission hygiene, data backups) remains low, even after painful firsthand experience.
How to cut the risk
Most of us use our phones to shop, find deals, and pay—and we deserve to be able to do that safely. Adopting preventative security measures (such as using mobile security software), practicing good mobile hygiene (such as checking app permissions), and remembering STOP, our simple scam response framework, can keep scammers at bay:
S—Slow down: Don’t let urgency or pressure push you into action. Take a breath before responding. Legitimate businesses like your bank or credit card don’t push immediate action.
T—Test them: If you answered the phone and are feeling panicked about the situation, likely involving a family member or friend, ask a question only the real person would know—something that can’t be found online.
O—Opt out: If it feels off, hang up or end the conversation. You can always say the connection dropped.
P—Prove it: Confirm the person is who they say they are by reaching out yourself through a trusted number, website, or method you’ve used before.
The criminals behind extortion scams pour time and money into targeting their victims, constantly evolving their tactics to make the scams more believable and hard-hitting. If you’ve been the victim of an extortion scam, sharing your story can help others spot the signs before it’s too late, reduce the stigma of being a victim, and put the shame where it belongs: on the criminals.
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This Week's Bali News
Bali’s Benoa Harbour Gets Major Upgrade with New Maritime Tourism Hub, Get the Details Here

The Bali Maritime Tourism Hub represents the most significant transformation of Benoan Fishing Port to date. Benoan Fishing Port has had a long history of transformations from a small fishing port to be the world-class luxury marine tourism port. Since the port is situated towards the south of Bali island, it has easy access to the Indian Ocean and other international cruising locations which further supports Bali Maritime Hub’s construction...

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An infostealer and banking Trojan rolled into one is making the rounds in Facebook groups aimed at “active seniors”.
Attackers used social engineering methods to lure targets into joining fake Facebook groups that appeared to promote travel and community activities—such as trips, dance classes, and community gatherings.
Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali and Lombok have been chosen as the best islands in Asia in the 2025 Readers' Choice Awards by the global travel magazine Conde Nast Traveller. On October 7, 2025, the list was announced, placing Bali in first place and Lombok in second place with respective scores of 96.86 and 94.86 out of 100.
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Bali’s Ngurah Rai Airport power outage disrupts 74 flights

I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali recorded 74 flights affected by a power outage on Friday evening.
"The power outage affected 42 international flights and 32 domestic flights," the airport's general manager, Ahmad Syaugi Shahab, said on Saturday.
The Bali Climatology Station of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) issued an early warning of potential extreme drought in Tejakula Sub-District, Buleleng District, Bali, Indonesia.
Head of the Bali Climatology Station, Aminudin Ar Roniri, when confirmed here on Saturday, explained that the potential for extreme drought is not projected to spread because December 2025 is expected to be the start of the rainy season.
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How a Century of Tourism Shaped the Bali We Know Today
IN 1931, A BALINESE dance troupe performed daily for the elite at the Exposition Coloniale in Paris. Their stage was a faux temple courtyard in the Dutch Pavilion, with stone altars, carved towers, and a replica candi bentar gate. For months, Parisians filed through the exhibit, enchanted by a vision of Bali both intimate and theatrical. This faraway island in the Dutch East Indies had stepped onto the world stage, framed as a place of wonder, mystery, and beauty.
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Bali Airport Expands Flight Connectivity, Serves 18M Travelers in Jan–Sep 2025

Jakarta. Bali's I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport served around 18.23 million passengers between January and September 2025, up 1 percent from the same period last year.
The airport’s international routes saw stronger growth, with 11.53 million passengers recorded during the nine-month period, an increase of 9 percent year-on-year.
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Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono reviewed the progress of the breakwater construction at Kuta Beach, Bali, on Monday, October 13, 2025. The breakwater was built along the coastline between Kuta and Seminyak, stretching 5.3 kilometers, said the minister.
A prominent tourist destination, Agus said the breakwater construction at Kuta Beach is aimed at preventing coastal abrasion.
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Disruptions At Bali Airport Trigger Calls From Leaders To Speed Up Development Of New North Bali Terminals

Momentum is building on the North Bali International Airport project. The development has been in the pipeline for nearly a decade, and leaders across the province are keen to ensure that this is the time that the idea for a new transportation hub finally comes to fruition.
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Bali’s Monsoon Season Readiness, Protecting Tourists and Ensuring Smooth Travel Experiences: What you need to know

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Last Weeks Bali News
Volcanic Eruption In Indonesia Grounds Bali Flights
Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki’s powerful ash cloud disrupts travel, triggers evacuations, and highlights the region’s ongoing volcanic hazards. Flights in and out of Indonesia’s most popular tourist destination, Bali, ground to a halt this week after Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, a volcano on Flores Island in East Nusa Tenggara province, erupted with dramatic force.
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Experts Confirm Bali At Risk Of More Flooding In Top Tourism Destinations


Recent flooding in Bali left vast swathes of Denpasar and Badung regencies devastated.
With thousands of families experiencing damage to their homes and businesses, as well as massive damage to infrastructure, the incoming monsoon season will pose a severe test for communities across Bali, including the tourism industry.
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Bali’s Lake Batur Set for Tourism Transformation with New Eco-Friendly Cruise


Bali’s Lake Batur, nestled in the picturesque Kintamani region, is set to become the pivotal point of a major tourism revival. While Kintamani has long been recognized as the gateway to Bali’s iconic Mount Batur, the last few years have seen the region rapidly transform into a thriving hub for international tourists. With new developments on the horizon, including an exciting new cruise experience, the future of tourism in Kintamani is brighter than ever.
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All Indonesia App Becomes Mandatory For All Tourists Visiting Bali

Tourists traveling to Bali, as well as any destination in Indonesia, are now required to use the new digital arrivals card system.
The All Indonesia application system has been in trial for just over a month, and as of October 1st, it is now mandatory for all travelers arriving at all international airports and harbors.
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🌕 Full Moon Magic in Bali – The Spiritual Beauty of Purnama
One of the most beautiful things about Bali is how deeply spirituality is woven into everyday life. Among the many sacred traditions of Balinese Hinduism, the Full Moon Ceremony (Purnama) holds a special place.
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IndiGo Announces Bold Expansion with New Direct Flights from Delhi to Manchester, UK, and Exciting New Services to Bali and Krabi Starting This Month

IndiGo is set to significantly expand its global and domestic network, offering more travel options for both international and local passengers. The airline has announced a series of new routes, marking its continued growth and commitment to enhancing travel connectivity.
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Bali’s Newest Landmark Set To Encourage More Tourists To Explore Island’s North

Bali’s newest landmark, the Turyapada Tower, is poised to help encourage a whole new wave of tourists to visit the north of Bali.
The project is now entering its second phase of development, which will involve building a ring road to improve access, as well as developing a gondola-style attraction at the tower site, and more.
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I’ve driven down Jalan Tamblingan in Sanur on Bali's East Coast for nearly three decades, and what I’ve seen in the last few months is nothing short of remarkable.
The government has embarked on one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Sanur’s history—transforming Sanur into a model of modern living.
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Bali, Indonesia: New Tourism Regulations Require Hotels to Adopt Eco-Friendly Practices Amid Waste Management Challenges

To solve waste management issues on top of the bad flooding on the island, the Indonesian Minister for Environment, Hanif Faisol Nurofiq, asked the top hotels and resorts on Bali to become more green. This is a change for the government in Bali in regard to waste management in the tourism and hospitality departments. Tourists are encouraged to stay at the hotels that focus on waste management and other green initiatives.
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Bali’s Best Destinations for Every Type of Traveler in 2025 from Cultural Hubs to Serene Beaches and Hidden Retreats

Bali is a paradise that offers something for every type of traveler, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in 2025. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone in search of tranquility, Bali has it all. From its vibrant cultural hubs like Ubud, where art and spirituality converge, to its serene beaches such as Seminyak and Lovina, perfect for sunbathing and water sports, there’s no shortage of diverse experiences.
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This Week's New Special Real Estate Deal
RETIRE IN BALI – BALI LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAS

An extraordinary retirement haven, where your dreams of a serene and fulfilling Bali lifestyle come to life.

When it comes to retirement, choosing the right location can make all the difference. Bali’s East Coast, with its tranquil beaches, breathtaking scenery, and pure air, offers an idyllic setting for your golden years.Bali Luxury Retirement Villas Saba Bali Indonesia

Imagine starting your day with a leisurely walk on the beach, feeling the soft sand between your toes and the gentle ocean breeze on your face.
Our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas are just a short 200 meter stroll from a picturesque beach which is considered by many tourists and locals alike as one of the best beaches for families on Bali’s East Coast, inviting you to embrace the island’s natural beauty.
Safe and Family-Friendly:
Pantai Saba Beach, renowned for its safety and calm waters, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning views, you’ll find peace and serenity here.
Spectacular Sunrises:

Bali’s East Coast air, carried by trade winds and largely untouched by pollution, is a breath of fresh air – literally. Studies show that clean air contributes to longevity and improved health, making it a valuable asset for retirees.
Bali Oasis: Designed for Retirement Living
Returning to your private villa after a day of exploration or relaxation feels like a true homecoming.
We’ve meticulously designed these homes with the needs and desires of retirees in mind.
Solid Teak front entrance door Ensures strong security and long lasting quality with very little upkeep.
Forget about the upkeep of a large house. Our villas are thoughtfully sized to minimize maintenance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement to the fullest.
Private Carport:

Open & Airy:
Refresh and Rejuvenate:
Start your day with an invigorating swim in your optional private pool.
It’s the perfect way to stay active and energized, right at your doorstep.
Enjoy year-round comfort with air conditioning in living areas and bedrooms.
Screen doors let in the refreshing ocean breeze during cooler months most of the year. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Main Entrance with Tinted glass
Energy Efficiency:
Reflective glass windows reduce air conditioning costs, keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving you money.
High Quality Finishing:
Durable & Stylish: Granito-style tile floors offer timeless beauty and require minimal upkeep. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Floors.
We understand that your retirement home should be a sanctuary – a place where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the best that life has to offer.
That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into designing villas that cater to the unique needs of baby boomers.

Durable tile floors and high-quality cabinetry minimize upkeep, so you can spend your time doing what you love.
Relax, Entertain, and Savor: Your Villa’s Heart and Soul
Beyond the tranquil bedrooms and refreshing pool lies the heart of your villa – a space designed for relaxation, connection, and culinary delights.
Unwind in Style:
Sink into the plush comfort of a brand-new recliner couch, perfect for unwinding with a good book or enjoying a movie night.
Stay Connected:
Invite friends over for a cozy gathering or stretch out and savor the peaceful ambiance.
A dedicated workstation, complete with self-charging ports and ample lighting, ensures you can stay connected with loved ones, manage your finances, and pursue your online passions.

Step into your private courtyard garden, a serene oasis where you can meditate, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of nature.

The dining area, with its elegant solid teak table and seating for four, sets the stage for memorable meals with family and friends.

The well-appointed kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring:
Ample counter space and storage.

Custom-made cabinetry adds a touch of elegance, provides even more convenience.
With affordable housekeeping services readily available, you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your retirement.


Custom-Designed: Every detail, from the spacious bed to the ample wardrobe space, has been carefully considered to create a luxurious and functional space.
Vanity Area: A well-lit vanity with a large mirror ensures you can prepare for your day in style.
Huge closets and wardrobes with plenty of storage space
Massive Backdrop with makeup mirror and table with plenty of natural light.


Indulge in the ultimate pampering experience in your elegant bathroom, featuring:
Dual Sinks: His and hers sinks offer convenience and add a touch of luxury.
Soaking Tub: Relax and unwind in the spacious tub, complete with a safety handle for easy access.
Relax and unwind as you enjoy your courtyard garden
Open the screen window and have fresh air come into your bathtub. How nice is that?

Open-Air Shower:

The private bathroom offers a full-size shower for added convenience.
Guest Suite: Comfort and Convenience:Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom
Your guests will feel right at home in the comfortable and well-appointed guest suite.
It also has a beautiful view of the garden court which allows lots of light for the makeup mirror and the full sized dressing mirror.
With its own private bathroom and ample wardrobe space, it’s the perfect place for friends and family to stay when they visit.
Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom TV Backdrop
Lovely bathroom with shower.
This guest bedroom comes equipped with a slightly smaller bathroom but still with a loveless sink and full size shower and toilet.
Security and Peace of Mind:

Experience the luxury and comfort of our thoughtfully designed Bali Luxury Retirement Villa .
Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover the perfect place to call home in Bali.
With 27 years of experience building in Bali, we have handpicked this location to provide the perfect blend of convenience, tranquility, and access to essential amenities.
The Kasih Ibu Hospital, just a 5-minute drive away, provides excellent emergency care and a range of wellness programs for baby boomers.
Kasih Ibu Hospital Saba 5 Min Drive
For more specialized needs, the brand-new Bali International Hospital, a 20-minute drive, offers world-class medical services, including anti-aging treatments and specialized care.
Bali International Hospital 20 Min Drive

Plus, affordable housekeeping services allow you to spend your time enjoying retirement, not doing chores.

Bali’s low cost of living, combined with the potential for rental income from your villa, allows you to stretch your retirement savings further and enjoy a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.
Don’t miss out!
Only one Villa available at this time – Discounted by 5%
Experience the benefits of a prime location in Bali. Contact us today to learn more about our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas and start planning your dream retirement.
Bali Luxury Retirement Villas present a unique opportunity. Here, your retirement dreams and financial goals can intertwine.
Affordable Luxury:
Imagine daily massages, gourmet dining, and exciting adventures, all within your reach.
Family Haven: Your loved ones will be eager to visit you in paradise. No more worrying about expensive flights for family reunions – they’ll be booking their tickets as soon as they can!
Investment Potential: Bali’s real estate market is booming, especially for properties catering to retirees. With long-term lease options and strong rental demand, your villa can generate a steady income stream, adding to your financial security.
The Numbers Make Sense:
Starting at just 4.6 Miliar IDR (for other currencies exchange rates click here), our villas are a fraction of the cost of comparable properties in many Western countries.
Secure Long Term Leases Included:
Secure Your Bali Legacy:
Forget the typical Bali lease worries. We offer you an unparalleled opportunity to own your tropical paradise for up to three generations.
Unmatched Flexibility & Control: Resell your lease, pass it on to loved ones, or simply enjoy your villa for many decades to come. The choice is entirely yours.
Prime Location, Exclusive Clientele: Nestled in a sought-after area, our villas cater to discerning individuals aged 55-75 seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle.
Stand Out From the Crowd: Most Bali villas come with remaining lease terms of 20-30 years. Your exceptional long term leases is an exceptional investment, offering peace of mind and long-term value.
Interested in learning more about this unique opportunity? We prefer to discuss the details in private.
Please contact us to schedule a personalized consultation.

Estimated monthly rental incomes for similar villas at our currrent rental rates equal 20,000,000 Idr to 30 million Rupiah per month.
You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out your villa can become a lucrative investment, allowing you to enjoy your retirement while building your wealth.
You may in fact want to purchase two. One for your retirement and one for strictly investment which can also be utilized from time to time to accommodate the multiple amount of children, grandchildren and friends that will want to come visit you in Bali which is currently the second most sought after destination in the world.
Live Your Dream, Grow Your Wealth:
Imagine a retirement where you can indulge in your passions, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones, all while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle and watching your investment flourish.
ONLY ONE PROPERTY AVAILABLE.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY –ACT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT:

We only have BLRV-A-1 available for sale at this moment.
Priced To Sell:
Discounted 5 % Until Oct 30 th. 2024.
Sales Price 4.48 Miliar
Live in the place the world is raving about!
Contact us today to learn more about this Great retirement opportunity
For English or Bahasa Indonesia call Azizah, a registered Notaris at +62 811-3864-993

“The owners of this company are the perfect combination of long-time international experience and in-depth subject-matter knowledge and relevant local expertise, networking, and the right licenses to run this business and advise their clients. The properties on offer are at prime locations with huge growth”
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