05 April 2024 , 07:52
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Other MPs, political staff and a journalist have since been sent explicit messages in a bid to entrap them
A Tory MP says he is mortified after he was targeted in a honeytrap.
William Wragg sent naked snaps of himself to a user on dating app Grindr then was manipulated into handing over colleagues’ phone numbers.
Mr Wragg, who is gay, told The Times: “They had compromising things on me.
"They wouldn’t leave me alone. They’d ask for people.
"I gave them some numbers, not all. I told him to stop.”
The Tory MP said he originally planned to meet up with the man, but they didn’t and that’s when he was asked for numbers.
Other MPs, political staff and a journalist have since been sent explicit messages by a “Charlie or Abi” in a bid to entrap them, as reported by Politico.
It is understood "Charlie" or "Abi" would claim to be someone they met years ago.
I’m mortified. I’m so sorry my weakness has caused others hurt.
Mr Wragg
The sender’s profile picture showed a man in a white shirt having dinner with a woman.
The MPs were then sent explicit images and asked for the same in return.
It is understood two MPs responded by sending an explicit picture of themselves.
“Charlie” told his targets that he used to work in Parliament and claimed to have had sex with several Conservative and Labour MPs.
He also claimed to have worked for Mr Wragg in 2022 - something the Tory MP denies.
Mr Wragg added: “I’m mortified. I’m so sorry my weakness has caused others hurt.”
The MP had planned to stand down as a senior member of the 1922 Committee of Tory backbenchers at the next general election.
’MALICIOUS COMMUNICATIONS’
Leicestershire Police are probing the scam, which began last month after receiving a complaint of “malicious communications”.
Experts have dubbed the technique “spearphishing”, a method used to get highly personalised, sensitive or compromising material.
A parliamentary spokesperson said: “Parliament takes security extremely seriously and works closely with government in response to such incidents.
"We provide members and staff with tailored advice, making them aware of security risks and how to manage their digital safety.
"We are encouraging anyone affected who has concerns to contact the Parliamentary Security Department.”
Mr Wragg was previously recognised as one of the most prolific campaigners for Boris Johnson to resign after the Downing Street parties scandal.
He also submitted a letter of no-confidence while Liz Truss was the Prime Minister.
The MP then slammed Tory whips and claimed they were guilty of blackmail, blasting alleged plans to protect the former MP Owen Paterson from suspension after breaking lobbying rules.
He worked as a teacher before he took the seat of Hazel Grove in Stockport in 2015.
Mr Wragg then beat the Liberal Democrats and became the first Tory MP there since 1997 before climbing to his respected position of vice-chairman of the 1922 Committee.