CHEYENNE — The Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force are warning residents of an extortion scheme involving mailed child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and a ransom note.

On Wednesday, the Cheyenne Police Department posted to its official Facebook page, warning residents of the extortion scheme, in which citizens are being mailed child sexual abuse material. The department also reposted a similar post from the Natrona County Sheriff’s Office.

Approximately five reports of this scheme have been made to CPD, according to the department’s public information officer, Alex Farkas.

In the 24 hours prior to the post, law enforcement in Natrona County received at least two reports of this scheme targeting residents, with additional reports made around the state of Wyoming.

“These reports remain under active investigation,” CPD posted. “If you or someone you know has received a letter in the mail matching the provided evidence photo, do not open it, and instead report it immediately to your local law enforcement through dispatch. Additionally, do not contact the sender, and do not send money.”

According to law enforcement, these letters contain several identical identifying factors, including:

• Mailed using a Canadian postal stamp

• Claiming the recipient clicked a suspicious internet link that provided the hackers access

• Alleges that illegal images were planted on the recipient’s devices

• Uses threats of police involvement to scare you

• Demands money within 36 hours

• Includes a URL and QR code for Bitcoin, Coinbase or Cash App payment

• Mentions the recipient’s family members by name

• Arrives as a mailed letter to the recipient’s home address

Law enforcement is asking that residents share this information with their communities, including friends, neighbors and family members, in an effort to combat the issue.

“ICAC agents are working diligently to investigate these reports, track the origin of the letters, and hold those responsible accountable,” NCSO posted.

“While these scammers may try to use scare tactics as leverage, any involvement with CSAM falls under serious criminal conduct.”

The post added that protecting children and families from exploitation is the top priority of the ICAC Task Force.

DCI and the ICAC Task Force are the investigating agencies on this extortion scheme. The United States Postal Inspection Service is also assisting in the investigation, according to Farkas.

Law enforcement is encouraging the public to notify law enforcement immediately if they or someone they know are mailed these letters.

“This scheme is not only about extortion, it weaponizes some of the most serious crimes imaginable,” said Natrona County Sheriff’s Office ICAC Task Force Officer Drew Cotton. “Making a report to law enforcement ensures we can investigate quickly, protect potential victims and hold offenders accountable.”

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