Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj warned that the misuse of images on social media to harass, blackmail and extort money from women and children is a growing concern.
Speaking on the issue, Paulraj said the unauthorized use of photographs and personal images to threaten victims for financial gain has become a global challenge.
She said discussions have been held with the Ministry of Digital Economy to strengthen cybersecurity laws and improve measures to address such online abuse.
Paulraj said those affected can seek assistance through the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT), which can help identify the sources of harmful content, remove such images from the internet and support legal action against those responsible.
The minister urged victims not to remain silent or feel pressured to hide such incidents due to fear or social stigma.
“Those affected, should stand up and seek legal protection. When action is taken, there is a strong possibility of identifying those responsible,” she said.
Paulraj also warned against responding to online harassment through self-harm or isolation, emphasizing that legal and institutional support is available.
Individuals facing such abuse can seek assistance through the Women and Children’s Affairs Ministry hotline 1938, which operates to address abuse against women, or contact the Women and Children Abuse Investigation Division at the nearest police station. They may also report incidents through SLCERT.