Viral Voyeurism: The Hidden Cost Of Obscenity In Sri Lanka'S Digital Sphere

The Rise of Non-consensual Sharing

In a disturbing trend, Sri Lanka is witnessing a surge in the non-consensual sharing of intimate videos and images. Every incident begins the same way: an adult male records a private moment without consent, and soon after, the footage surfaces on social media platforms. Within minutes, it spreads like wildfire across WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and Telegram, reaching hundreds who either view it or share it further.

The viral nature of this content highlights a critical issue in today's digital culture – the transformation of social media users from passive viewers to active distributors. The ethical considerations take a backseat as people justify their participation with excuses like "sharing for awareness." This collective behavior leads to a mass violation of privacy, underscoring the need for public consciousness, legal frameworks, and ethical education.

“In a society where clicks equal clout, we have to remember that each share can harm someone profoundly,” a legal expert remarked.

Legal Framework and Ethical Responsibilities

Sri Lanka has established several legal measures to tackle these violations. The Obscene Publications Act No. 22 of 1956 explicitly criminalizes the publication, distribution, and possession of obscene materials. Additionally, the Personal Data Protection Act No. 9 of 2022 considers photographs and videos of identifiable subjects as personal data, categorizing intimate content as sensitive data. Sharing such content without consent now carries significant legal repercussions.

Ethically, the production and dissemination of intimate content without consent represent a profound moral failing. Media outlets often exacerbate the issue by sensationalizing these incidents, creating a vicious cycle where perpetrators gain undue attention while victims suffer continuous harm. The social implications are dire, eroding trust and perpetuating cycles of victimization in a society where reputation and family honor are paramount.

A Call for Change

Addressing this crisis demands a multifaceted approach: stringent legal enforcement, heightened public awareness, responsible media reporting, and platform accountability. Educational initiatives should promote digital ethics and responsible online behavior, fostering a cultural shift that condemns exploitation and supports victims.

The message is clear: do not participate in or normalize the spread of intimate content. Every share extends the original harm and violates ethical norms. In the digital age, the pursuit of viral notoriety can devastate lives. It is crucial for society to uphold privacy, dignity, and justice, transforming social media users into ethical digital citizens.