U.S. COP Act Would Criminalize “Sextortion” Threats Targeting Minors Online
Washington — A new House bill would make it a federal crime to threaten a minor with the release of sexually explicit images in order to pressure that child into creating or sending more images, a tactic often described as “sextortion.”
The measure, H.R. 6719, was introduced Dec. 15, 2025, by Rep. Laurel Lee of Florida and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
The bill, titled the Combating Online Predators Act of 2025 (the “COP Act of 2025”), would amend federal child exploitation and child pornography statutes (18 U.S.C. §§ 2252A and 2252) to add offenses covering threats to distribute explicit depictions of a minor (or someone a suspect believes is a minor) when the intent is to coerce the target into creating or transmitting sexually explicit material.
In practical terms for families, the proposal focuses on the moment an offender leverages fear, “send more or I’ll share what I have”, even if the offender’s threat involves images already in their possession. Supporters say the change is aimed at strengthening prosecutors’ tools against online predators and closing gaps used in coercion cases.
As of mid-December, the bill received Judiciary Committee action, including markup activity, according to congressional records.
What parents should know
- If a child receives threats, don’t negotiate; save messages, screenshots, and usernames.
- Report immediately to local law enforcement and the NCMEC CyberTipline, and alert the platform.
What’s next: Watch for potential House floor scheduling and updates on Congress.gov as the measure advances.
This article was produced by an education parenting today journalist with the assistance of AI. This is not legal advice. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
