The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is warning that cybercriminals are targeting the online accounts of adults and children to steal intimate images and videos.

The bureau says the attackers use social engineering and other techniques to gain access to victims’ social media accounts, after which the stolen content may be used for extortion or published online.

According to the FBI, victims can face further harassment, stalking, sextortion and other targeted attacks after their content is stolen.

The bureau said student-athletes are frequently targeted because of their public profiles on social media.

Cybercriminals reportedly use several methods to gain access to accounts, including trying leaked or previously used passwords, impersonating customer service representatives of social media companies and sending phishing messages.

In some cases, attackers contact victims claiming they need to help recover their accounts before directing them to fake login pages designed to steal their credentials.

Security awareness expert Rachel Tobac, CEO of SocialProof Security, said the attacks appear to be a growing concern, particularly for young people.

The FBI is advising social media users to protect their accounts with unique passwords and multi-factor authentication.

Users have also been urged to be cautious when contacted unexpectedly by someone claiming to represent a social media platform, particularly when asked to provide login details or click on links.

The bureau also recommends avoiding the storage of intimate images in online accounts to reduce the risk of such material being accessed or stolen.