Understanding and Preventing Cyber Flashing

Cyber flashing is a distressing form of online harassment where unsolicited sexual and obscene images, such as genitalia or pornographic content, are sent via WhatsApp or the AirDrop feature on iPhones. Often, the sender is an unknown person in the vicinity, making the experience even more unnerving.

Why Should We Be Concerned?

Cyber flashing is a serious invasion of privacy that can cause significant emotional distress. The unsolicited nature of these explicit messages creates fear and anxiety about potential physical stalking or harassment by an unknown individual nearby.

Warning Signs

• Receiving media (messages, pictures, videos) from unknown numbers.
• The content of the media is obscene and sexual in nature.

Measures to Safeguard Against Cyber Flashing

It’s crucial to take proactive steps to protect yourself from such disturbing experiences. Here are some practical tips:

• Disable AirDrop on iPhone:

  • Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘General’ > ‘AirDrop’ > select ‘Receiving Off’.
  • Alternatively, go to the ‘Control Center’ > network settings square > tap on ‘AirDrop’ > select ‘Receiving Off’.

• Be Cautious with WhatsApp Video Calls:

  • Avoid receiving video calls from unknown numbers.
  • If persistent calls come from unknown numbers, ask a trusted friend to answer the call.

• Enable Security and Privacy Features:

  • Set up screen locks and enable privacy protection/private mode on your device.
  • Refer to your device’s settings for precise instructions as these can vary.

• Disable Location Services When Posting Online:

  • Go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Location’ > turn off/disable location.
  • Adjust app permissions to disable location access for specific apps.

• Disable Auto Download of Media on WhatsApp:

  • Go to WhatsApp > ‘Settings’ > ‘Data and Storage Usage’ > ‘Media Auto-Download’ > select “No Media” for mobile data, WiFi, and roaming.

• Do Not Click on Images/Videos from Unknown Numbers.

Actions to Take If Affected by Cyber Flashing

• Report the Incident:
  • File a complaint at your nearest cybercrime police station.
  • Alternatively, register an online complaint anonymously at cybercrime.gov.in.

Legal Framework

Several laws address cyber flashing under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Information Technology Act (IT Act):

• For Women:

  • Section 509 IPC: Addresses acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman, including cyber flashing of genitalia and pornography.
  • Section 354A(iii) IPC: Punishes showing pornography against a woman’s will.

• For Children:

  • Section 293 IPC: Punishes distribution or circulation of obscene objects to individuals under 20 years.

• Information Technology Act:

  • Section 67: Punishes publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form.
  • Section 67A: Addresses sexually explicit acts in electronic form.
  • Section 67B: Pertains to child pornography, and Section 13 and 14 of the POCSO Act apply to the use of children for pornographic purposes.