Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj has warned that the misuse of images on social media to harass, blackmail and extort money from women and children is becoming a serious concern.
Speaking on the issue, the minister said the unauthorized use of photographs and personal images to threaten victims for financial gain has become a growing global challenge.
She noted that discussions have already been held with the Ministry of Digital Economy to strengthen cybersecurity laws and introduce better measures to tackle such forms of online abuse.
Paulraj said victims can seek assistance through the Sri Lanka Computer Emergency Readiness Team (SLCERT), which can help trace the source of harmful content, remove such images from the internet and support legal action against those responsible.
The minister also urged victims not to remain silent or hide such incidents due to fear or social stigma.
“Those affected should stand up and seek legal protection. When action is taken, there is a strong possibility of identifying those responsible,” she said.
Paulraj further cautioned victims against responding to online harassment through self-harm or isolation, stressing that legal and institutional support is available.
Individuals facing such abuse can seek help through the Women and Children’s Affairs Ministry hotline 1938, which addresses abuse against women, or contact the Women and Children Abuse Investigation Division at the nearest police station. Incidents can also be reported through SLCERT.
