14-Year-Old Arrested for Extorting Minors via TikTok with Threats

A 14-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of extorting minors through TikTok by demanding money in exchange for "protection" and threatening physical harm if they refused. The investigation began earlier this month after complaints were filed at the Tel Aviv South police station. According to police, the suspect contacted minors his age, offering protection for payment, and when they did not comply, he threatened to harm them physically.

Police believe two minors, fearing the threats, paid the suspect money multiple times. Despite the payments, the suspect continued to demand additional sums and new clothing items while maintaining his threats. The case came to light when the parents of one victim noticed suspicious messages on their child's phone and reported it to the police. Youth investigators at Tel Aviv South station identified another minor who was also allegedly extorted.

The suspect was arrested on August 19 and has been held under extended detention by the Tel Aviv Juvenile Magistrate's Court. The Tel Aviv District Youth Prosecution Unit filed a prosecutor's statement against him today, with an indictment expected to be submitted in the coming days.