Know Your Rights Online: 565 Cases of Sextortion Recorded Since the Beginning of the Year
Title: Know Your Rights Online: 565 Cases of Sextortion Recorded Since the Beginning of the Year
Content: A new awareness campaign titled "Know Your Rights Online" was officially launched on Monday, November 24, at Café du Vieux Conseil in Port Louis by the Minister of Gender Equality and Family Welfare, Arianne Navarre-Marie. This initiative is part of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, celebrated on November 25.
The event brought together the Minister of ICT, Avinash Ramtohul, representatives from the United Nations, and police officials. In her speech, the minister raised concerns about the extent of cyber violence: "Too many women and young girls suffer from online harassment. Some cases have even led to suicide," she stated.
Arianne Navarre-Marie reminded that a file compiling testimonies from victims on Telegram was submitted earlier this year to the Police Commissioner. In light of the increasing cases of cyber violence, she emphasized the need for concerted actions. Among the measures already implemented is the "Youth Package" program, a parental control tool aimed at better guiding young Internet users. "We are working with the Ministry of ICT to allow parents to better monitor what their children are doing online," she clarified.
The minister also discussed strengthening legislation, increasing training, the hotline 139, and expanding support services for victims. "Digital violence is evolving quickly. We need the commitment of digital platforms, telecom operators, schools, parents, and the community if we want to win this battle," she warned.
For his part, the Minister of ICT, Avinash Ramtohul, noted that 1,114 cases of online harassment were reported between January and November 5, 2025. In addition, there were 1,400 cases of online harassment and 565 cases of sextortion. He encouraged victims to report abuses and reminded that the government is working to revise laws to better protect internet users, especially the youth. "There has been a lot of leniency over the past ten years," he lamented. He stated that it is urgent to better control the content published on social media. "We must protect our children," he insisted, highlighting the rise of hate speech and vulgar remarks.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Krishna Jhugroo clarified that "the crime rate is decreasing," while noting "an increase in complaints related to cybercrime." He reminded that "the police are doing their job" and relies on "the collaboration of the public to make progress."
