Video leak row: Titoker Sajal Malik chides lack of fact-checking in Pak media as fake clip goes viral on web

Pakistani social media personality Sajal Malik has publicly disputed the assertions linking her to an explicit video that recently went viral on the web. The video that gets traction through diverse social media platforms purportedly puts Malik in an intimate setting. As a rebuttal, Malik, who is also an accomplished presenter, broadcaster and fashion model, has filed a complaint with Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), expressing that the video was fabricated and was intended to ruin her reputation.

 

While being interviewed at UrduPoint, Sajal Malik shared her agony over the situation, claiming that the dissemination of this false video significantly affected her mental anguish. She rebuked the media outlets for disseminating content without much verification and fact-checking. Malik also emphasised that she hasn’t taken any legal action against individuals who shared the video, on account that she has done nothing wrong.

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This incident reflects a concerning pattern in Pakistan where numerous female influencers encounter the same situation as the release of private or explicit videos. Notable cases include:

 

• Kanwal Aftab: A prominent social media figure and entrepreneur who has 4 million followers on Instagram, also faced a similar situation where an explicit video of her was disseminated on social media platforms in a matter of weeks. This created a widespread discussion on online platforms and highlighted the growing concerns about digital privacy and cybersecurity.

 

• Imsha Rehman: A Lahore-based social media influencer faced backlash due to the dissemination of an explicit video of her. Users began accusing her of publishing such content for fame. As a result, she deactivated her social media account, although reports from local media outlets suggested that her accounts were hacked.

 

• Maryam Faisal: A well-known Pakistani TikToker whose private video has been allegedly leaked on social media. It is the fifth such occurrence involving a Pakistani figure.

 

Such incidents have heightened concerns about digital privacy and the exploitation of public figures in Pakistan. This increased pinpointing of female influencers raises the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and legal protections to ensure individuals' privacy in this cyber age.

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The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been actively investigating such cases, underscoring the need for digital security and the enforcement of cybercrime laws. The FIA have already investigated the previous incidents and took action against individuals for the dissemination of defamatory content online.

 

With the continuous evolution of digital space, protecting individuals from online harassment is indeed crucial. Sajal Malik’s case reinforces the need for comprehensive measures to tackle these challenges for a safer online space for all users. She became popular for her distinctive style of captivating strangers on the street in conversations about trending and relevant topics.

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