Student Reports Fake Social Media Profiles, Prompt Action by Wakad Police
The creation of fake social media profiles for the purpose of harassing someone, particularly through the manipulation and posting of edited photos, constitutes a violation of privacy and can have severe emotional and psychological consequences.
The Wakad police in Pune are currently conducting a manhunt for an unidentified individual who created four fake social media profiles of a college student, featuring edited photos of her. This person went even further by sending friend requests to the student’s family and friends. After enduring harassment for the past six months, the student finally reported the matter to the Wakad police last Saturday.
The police have registered a case under section 354 of the Indian Penal Code, which addresses assault or criminal force against a woman with the intention to outrage her modesty. As the incident occurred between January and June 24, prior to the implementation of the BNS on July 1, 2024, the case is being handled under the IPC. Additionally, the police have invoked relevant sections of the Information and Technology Act to address this issue. An officer from the Wakad police stated that the complainant reported that an unknown individual created four fake profiles on a social media platform and shared edited photos of the student, her family members, and friends on these profiles.
It is crucial for law enforcement to swiftly take action in such cases in order to protect the victim and ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable for their actions. Raising awareness about the impact of cyber harassment and emphasizing the importance of respecting others’ privacy and dignity online is of utmost importance.
