Bengaluru Student Targeted by Instagram Account Filming Women Without Consent; Accused Arrested
A Bengaluru student has raised urgent concerns regarding a pervasive issue of online harassment and privacy violations after a video of her, filmed in public without her consent, was posted to Instagram. The incident highlights a growing trend of surreptitious filming and the challenges victims face in seeking redress from social media platforms.
Rising Concerns Over Non-Consensual Filming
The student, who wishes to remain anonymous, reported that the video, taken on Church Street, was uploaded to Instagram despite multiple reports to the platform. According to the student, Instagram claimed the content did not violate its community guidelines. This inaction has led to a barrage of unwanted attention and disturbing messages.
“It has been getting views by the minute, and people are finding my account, and I’ve been getting vulgar messages, to say the least,” the student stated.
The situation is further complicated by the discovery that the Instagram account in question features videos of numerous other women, potentially filmed without their knowledge or consent. The account had amassed over 10,000 followers before recent action was taken.
Disturbing Messages and a Pattern of Exploitation
The student also revealed receiving a particularly disturbing message from an anonymous user claiming a desire to engage in “femdom” (female domination) and even offering financial compensation for humiliating acts. The sender acknowledged the inappropriate nature of the request but proceeded nonetheless.
A Reddit user previously flagged the account, describing it as dedicated to filming women, often those wearing revealing clothing, without their permission. The user shared a screenshot of a disclaimer posted by the account owner, stating that all content is intended for “capturing beautiful movement and entertainment purposes” and that no personal information is shared without consent.
However, the account also posted screenshots purporting to show women consenting to being featured in the Reels. Despite this, the student reported receiving no response when she attempted to contact the account owner directly.
Police Intervention and Arrest
Responding to the student’s complaint, Bengaluru Police have arrested the individual responsible for posting the obscene videos and photos. The arrest, made in KR Puram, followed the filing of a suo motu FIR (First Information Report). Cybercrime officials are currently questioning the accused, who lives with his brother, according to News18.
Account Removed, But Follower Count Climbs
As of today, the Instagram account has removed all of its posts. However, despite the removal, the account’s follower count has paradoxically increased, rising from 10,000 to over 11,000. This increase suggests continued interest in the type of content previously shared.
A Broader Conversation About Online Safety
The student emphasized the need for greater attention to women’s safety online, particularly as societal debates often focus on issues like language and politics. “While we are out there fighting for languages, I think there are more serious concerns to be addressed,” she added.
This case underscores the urgent need for social media platforms to strengthen their policies and enforcement mechanisms regarding non-consensual filming and online harassment, and for increased public awareness about the risks and available resources.
