A SHARP rise in online libel and voyeurism cases was reported by the Philippine National Police’s Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) for 2024.
According to a statement released Thursday, photo and video voyeurism cases, under Republic Act No. 9995 (Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009) in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012, jumped from 294 in 2023 to 347 in 2024—an 18.02% increase. Online libel cases also saw a rise, climbing from 1,403 to 1,458, a 3.92% increase.
The ACG attributes this surge to the expanding use of social media and increased internet access, creating a fertile ground for the spread of false information and defamatory statements. The rise in voyeurism cases, the ACG noted, is largely due to revenge or emotional retaliation by former lovers, facilitated by the easy sharing and distribution of intimate content online.
ACG chief Police Brigadier General Bernard Yang emphasized the severe harm inflicted by these crimes, including reputational damage and privacy violations. He urged victims to report such incidents to the police, assuring the public that the ACG is prepared to address these growing concerns.
metrosundaily
