The RCMP has issued a public warning about an "uptick" in what's known as "sexortion".

According to a news release issued by the Mounties, it happens after victims are befriended by someone through a companionship or dating website.

"A suspect then entices the victim in performing intimate acts streamed over webcam or mobile device," the news release states. "Unbeknownst to the victim, the interaction is secretly recorded. The suspect then threatens to release the video online unless they are paid by the victim."

Contact often occurs through free websites and, according to the RCMP, "may be fairly innocuous and may not involve an intimate component for days or weeks".

The person behind the scam might avoid meeting in person and only talk at "odd hours".

There were 13 cases last year, up from five in the previous year.

The Mounties are urging anyone who's been victimized to come forward and not send money to the person behind the scam.