MUMBAI: A series of private photographs of a young woman, reportedly taken several years ago during personal moments with friends, went viral on social media on Friday, leading to a barrage of harassment, trolling and unsolicited online attention.
According to officials, the woman — whose identity is being withheld for security reasons — approached the Maharashtra Cyber Cell after the images began circulating on messaging apps and meme pages without her consent. The photos, showing her in domestic and celebratory settings, were allegedly uploaded by an unknown source before rapidly spreading across platforms.
Preliminary investigations suggest the images may have been obtained from an old, compromised device or a hacked cloud account. Authorities are examining multiple digital footprints to determine the origin of the leak.
“We have registered a case under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act, including those pertaining to non-consensual distribution of private images,” a senior cyber official told TOI. “Sharing such material is a punishable offence. We urge citizens not to forward or download the content.”
Experts say the incident highlights the increasing misuse of personal photos online, especially targeting women.
“Once images go viral, the emotional toll on victims can be severe,” said Dr. Neha Kulkarni, a cyber-psychology specialist. “Harassment, character shaming and anxiety are common consequences.”
Women’s rights groups have condemned the online behaviour, calling for stricter enforcement and faster response mechanisms. Several social media handles that reposted the photos have already been taken down following takedown requests.
The victim is currently receiving legal assistance and counselling support, family sources told TOI. “She is distressed but cooperating with the investigation,” a relative said.
The Cyber Cell has appealed to the public to report any accounts circulating the images and has assured swift action against violators.
