Probe launched over online network trading women’s and children’s private images

The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs has raised alarm over an alleged online trafficking operation involving the buying and selling of private photographs and sexual content of women and children through social media platforms, particularly Facebook.

According to the Ministry, groups operating on Facebook and other social media platforms are reportedly being used to purchase and sell private photographs and videos for monetary gain.

The Ministry said social media activists have in recent days published numerous posts and videos drawing public attention to the issue.

Following preliminary inquiries, information and findings relating to the reported activities have been referred to the Police Bureau for the Prevention of Abuse of Children and Women and the Computer Crime Investigation Division for further investigation.

The Ministry said investigations into some of the groups found that individuals were allegedly using fake accounts to sell photographs and videos of people known to them. In some cases, attempts were reportedly made to distribute or sell images and videos of female members of their own families.

Authorities have also identified that a number of the groups are being operated from overseas, adding complexity to efforts to investigate and prevent the activities.

The Ministry urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant regarding children's use of social media and to pay close attention to the people with whom they communicate and interact online.

It warned that women and children could become victims of online exploitation even while inside their own homes and called on families to take appropriate measures to protect children from abuse and exploitation.

The Ministry said assistance is available through the 1938 and 1929 toll-free helplines for individuals or families affected by such activities or harmful online behaviour. The services provide access to psychosocial counselling as well as legal and other support services.

The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs said the matter has received its full attention and that urgent interventions are being taken to prevent further exploitation of women and children and to take action against those responsible.