Sri Lankan authorities have been alerted to an alleged online network involving the buying and selling of private photographs and sexual content involving women and children through social media groups, the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs said.
The ministry said it had received information about groups operating across social media where such material was allegedly being offered for sale or sought by users.
Following preliminary inquiries, information gathered by the ministry has been referred to the Sri Lanka Police Children and Women Bureau and the Computer Crime Investigation Division for further investigation.
According to the ministry, an initial examination of the groups found fake accounts allegedly being used to offer photographs and videos of people close to the account holders. It said instances were also observed where individuals appeared to be attempting to distribute material involving women from their own families.
The ministry said many of the groups appeared to be operated from overseas.
Parents were urged to closely monitor their children’s social media use and be aware of the people they interact with online.
The ministry said anyone who believes a family member has become a victim of or involved in such activity can seek assistance through the toll-free helplines 1938 and 1929.
The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs said the issue was receiving its full attention and that urgent measures would be taken to prevent women and children from becoming victims. (Newswire)