28/08/2026
Online Trafficking of Private Photos and Sexual Content of Women and Children Reported Through Social Media
An online trafficking operation involving the buying and selling of private photographs and sexual content of women and children through social media platforms, particularly Facebook, has been reported.
According to information received, groups operating on Facebook and other social media platforms are being used to purchase and sell sexual videos and private photographs of women and children for monetary gain.
In recent days, social media activists have also published a large number of posts and videos raising public awareness about this situation.
Based on preliminary inquiries conducted by the Ministry, information and findings relating to the reported activities have been referred to the Sri Lanka Police Bureau for the Prevention of Abuse of Children and Women and the Computer Crime Investigation Division for further investigation.
During the examination of the relevant groups, it was observed that individuals were using fake accounts to attempt to sell photographs and videos of people close to them. In some instances, attempts were also observed to distribute and sell photographs and videos of female members of their own families.
It has also been identified that many of these groups are being operated from overseas, making this a serious and complex online safety concern.
The Ministry urges parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children's use of social media and to pay close attention to the individuals with whom their children communicate and interact through these platforms.
Women and children may face the risk of becoming victims of such activities even within the safety of their own homes. Therefore, parents and guardians are strongly encouraged to take appropriate measures to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.
If you observe that a family member has become a victim of such an online operation or is experiencing harmful or addictive behaviour associated with such activities, assistance is available through the 1938 and 1929 toll-free helplines. These services provide access to psychosocial counselling and other legal and support services.
The Ministry of Women and Child Affairs further informs the public that this situation has received its full attention and that necessary urgent interventions are being undertaken to prevent women and children from becoming victims of such online exploitation and to take appropriate action against those involved.
Media Division
Ministry of Women and Child Affairs
