FTC Halts Digital Forensics Corporation Over Alleged $60 Million Sextortion Scam

On October 13, 2026, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) secured a court order to temporarily halt the operations of Digital Forensics Corporation LLC and its CEO, Dmitry Belkin. The FTC alleges that the company and several affiliated entities defrauded victims of “sextortion” by charging them thousands of dollars for services that were never performed or were entirely ineffective.

Sextortion involves criminals threatening to release private, intimate images of a victim unless the victim pays a ransom. The FTC complaint states that Digital Forensics targeted these vulnerable individuals through advertisements on platforms like Google, YouTube, and X, promising to identify the attackers and provide evidence to law enforcement.

How the Alleged Scheme Operated

The FTC claims that Digital Forensics marketed a “Phase 1” package costing between $1,499 and $20,000. This package supposedly included tracking the criminal’s location, communicating with the perpetrator, and preparing a detailed investigative report for police. However, the agency alleges that in many cases, the company did little more than block the sextortionist on social media—a step victims could have easily taken themselves.

Furthermore, the company allegedly pressured victims into purchasing “Phase 2” services for ongoing monitoring that never occurred. To maintain a facade of legitimacy, the complaint asserts that the company used employees in India and even paid Uber drivers to post fake positive online reviews while suppressing legitimate customer complaints.

Tactics Used to Pressure Victims

According to the FTC, the company’s telemarketers used aggressive scare tactics to manipulate victims during high-stress situations. For example, they allegedly warned military personnel that a sextortion attack could lead to a dishonorable discharge, or told married victims that their spouse and in-laws would be targeted if they did not pay for the company’s services.

The company also reportedly instructed victims to keep lines of communication open with the criminals, which directly contradicts guidance from the FBI and other law enforcement agencies. By keeping victims engaged with the scammers, the company allegedly made it easier to continue its own high-pressure sales tactics.

What This Means for Consumers

If you or someone you know has paid for services from Digital Forensics Corporation, you may be a victim of this alleged scheme. The FTC’s action is a significant step toward holding the company accountable, but recovering lost funds can be a complex process. It is important to gather all documentation related to your interaction with the company, including receipts, emails, chat transcripts, and any “investigative reports” you received.

While the court has temporarily stopped the company’s activities, victims should remain cautious of any company promising guaranteed results in identifying anonymous cybercriminals. If you have been targeted by a sextortion scam, the safest path is to contact local law enforcement or the FBI directly rather than paying private companies for unverified services. You may also file a formal report with the FTC to assist in their ongoing investigation.

When to Consult an Attorney

If you have suffered significant financial loss due to these alleged deceptive practices, speaking with a consumer protection attorney may help you understand your legal rights. A lawyer can assist you in determining whether you have grounds for a private civil claim to recover damages or how to participate in any potential restitution processes that may arise from the FTC’s federal case.

This article is general information based on Federal Trade Commission and court or agency records available at publication time. It is not legal advice; laws and deadlines differ by state and by case. Published October 13, 2026.