Understanding Cyber Flashing: Protecting Yourself Online

Unveiling Cyber Flashing

Cyber flashing entails the unsolicited sending of sexual and obscene images or videos, such as genital parts or pornographic content, over platforms like WhatsApp or iPhone's AirDrop feature. Victims may find themselves harassed and threatened by unknown individuals nearby.

Why Should We Be Concerned?

Receiving obscene media from unknown sources can be distressing and instill fear of potential attacks on one's modesty by nearby stalkers.

Safeguarding Measures

To protect yourself against cyber flashing:

• Disable or turn off the AirDrop feature on your iPhone.
• Avoid accepting WhatsApp video calls from unknown numbers.
• Enable security and privacy features online, such as screen locks and privacy protection modes.
• Disable location services when posting online.
• Save evidence by taking screenshots for future reporting.
• Disable auto-download of media in WhatsApp.
• Refrain from clicking on images or videos received from unknown numbers.

Taking Action Against Cyber Flashing

If you're affected by cyber flashing:

1. Register a complaint at your nearest cybercrime police station.
2. File an online complaint anonymously on cybercrime.gov.in.

Legal Provisions

Laws such as the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act, 2000, offer avenues for legal recourse against cyber flashing:

• For Women: Sections 509 and 354A(iii) of the IPC address acts intended to insult the modesty of women and sexual harassment, respectively.
• For Children: Section 293 of the IPC and Section 67B of the IT Act provide punishment for distributing obscene material to minors.
• Gender-Neutral Provisions: Sections 67 and 67A of the IT Act address the publication or transmission of obscene or sexually explicit material electronically.