LOVELAND, Colo. (KDVR) Police in Loveland are investigating a disturbing scam involving letters sent through the mail containing child sexual abuse material and demands for money.

Authorities say at least two residents received the suspicious mail and threats of blackmail.

“These folks have received letters in the mail that have solicited them to make telephone calls, text messages, scan QR codes, and essentially, the letters are explaining that you’ve received child pornography. ‘If you don’t call and pay us, we’re going to sabotage you,'” said Chris Padgett, Loveland police public information officer.

Padgett calls it an extortion scam, one that traumatizes even the strongest.

“It’s horrific in nature, and it does become very traumatic upon those who are viewing it,” he said. “The normal human brain is not meant to see these type of images.”

Police say the two victims in Loveland did not fall for the scam. They called the police immediately and handed over the letters.

“We’ve actually reached out with some of our state partnerships along with some of our federal partners,” said Padgett.

More cases may exist, authorities say

Authorities suspect the letters may be coming from outside the U.S., possibly Canada, and they believe more cases may exist that haven’t been reported.

“People see it, they go into panic mode, put it in the shredder and get rid of it,” said Padgett.

Investigators say there’s no risk to the victim who reports the scam but urge people not to get rid of the evidence, and instead secure it safely from others until you speak with police.

Padgett said, “All we’re asking for is them to report that to us so that we can take that because we don’t want people in possession of child sexual abuse material.”

Police say these cases may be a part of a broader operation targeting communities nationwide. They hope quick reporting and community awareness will shut it down before it spreads.

There are official resources on how to report mail fraud, mail theft, child exploitation, and other suspicious mail.

The U.S. Postal Service said it takes the safety of our customers and the security of the mail very seriously. It encourages anyone who receives suspicious or threatening mail to follow the Loveland Police Department’s guidance and also report it through the Postal Inspection Service’s channels.

• Report – United States Postal Inspection Service
• Child Safety – United States Postal Inspection Service

Loveland police say if you receive one of these paper mailings:

• Do not scan the QR code.
• Do not visit the listed websites.
• Do not call or text the listed numbers.

Instead, immediately secure the material away from others and call our non-emergency line at 970-667-2151. An officer will respond, document the incident and take possession of the material.