A woman from Meru County has publicly apologized to Kenyans after her private videos were leaked online, saying she fell victim to a social media scammer who deceived her with false promises of love and financial help.
In an emotional statement shared online, the woman—who runs a small grocery business—explained that she met the man through social media, where he allegedly promised to support her financially and even proposed marriage.
“Naomba mnisamehe, sitarudia. Kuna mwanaume alinidanganya ati atanisaidia,” she said tearfully, asking for forgiveness from Kenyans and understanding for her situation.
Lured, Recorded, and Blackmailed
According to her account, the man promised to send her KSh20,000 and asked for private videos in return, claiming he wanted to prove his trust in her. However, after receiving the clips, he allegedly turned against her, using them for extortion and humiliation.
The explicit videos later surfaced on various social media platforms, where they quickly went viral. The woman says the ordeal has left her traumatized and struggling to rebuild her reputation.
Police Warn Against Online Exploitation
Authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when engaging with strangers online, warning that cases of digital extortion and cyber harassment are on the rise in Kenya.
The Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (2018) criminalizes the sharing or publication of intimate images without consent, with offenders facing up to six years in jail or heavy fines.
Cybersecurity experts recommend avoiding sending personal photos or videos online, especially to people met through unverified platforms.
Support and Empathy Urged
Many Kenyans online have expressed sympathy, calling for compassion instead of ridicule. Several advocacy groups have offered to provide psychological and legal support to the victim as investigations continue.
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