Police urge public to report blackmail involving private media
Police also noted reports of fabricated images and videos created using artificial intelligence.
The Maldives Police Service has reported an increase in cases involving the misuse of private photos and videos on social media for blackmail.
Police stated that reported incidents include extortion through threats to release personal information, as well as the distribution and sale of such content without consent.
According to police, many cases arise from content shared within personal relationships. After such relationships end, the material is used to threaten or intimidate individuals or to obtain financial or personal benefit.
Police also noted reports of fabricated images and videos created using artificial intelligence.
“These are criminal offences. Such actions cause psychological and social harm to victims and affect their reputation,” police said in a statement.
Authorities stated that these cases will be investigated.
Police issued an advisory to the public, urging individuals to avoid creating or storing private content on digital devices and to refrain from sharing such material.
They also advised that once content is shared, it may be copied or distributed without consent.
Police warned against participating in the distribution of such material, stating that such actions are also punishable.
Individuals who face threats or blackmail involving personal content have been advised to report the matter to the police.
