Bengaluru Police files FIR against 28 social media accounts for obscene content. Bengaluru-News News

Bengaluru cyber police have stepped up action against social media users posting explicit and obscene content to gain followers and have registered FIR against 28 accounts in the latest action. The move comes amid growing complaints from citizens about sexually explicit videos and images being widely circulated on popular platforms in the guise of entertainment or influencer content.

Police say the action is aimed at sending a clear message that chasing likes, views and followers cannot be done at the cost of public decency or the law.

Race for likes and followers

Social media has become deeply embedded in daily life, often shaping opinions, behavior and even aspirations. Short videos, reels, and viral clips now dominate online attention, and for some creators, visibility has become an obsession.

Police officials say this pressure to remain relevant has led some users to adopt unethical tactics, including posting explicit snippets and directing viewers to “link in bio” pages for more content.

These clips often appear suddenly on users’ feeds, including the feeds of minors and unsuspecting viewers, causing inconvenience and discomfort. Authorities say many such accounts deliberately blur the line between suggestive and obscene content to avoid detection when clicking.

Complaint triggers police action

The action began after a formal complaint was lodged by Bengaluru resident Sriharsha, who flagged several accounts that allegedly promoted sexually explicit content. Acting on the complaint, the Cyber ​​Crime Branch under Bengaluru Police investigated the content and registered an FIR against 28 social media handles.

Officials said the case was discussed with senior officials before proceeding further given the scale and nature of the material involved. Once cleared, police began collecting digital evidence, including video clips, account details and links used to redirect users to external pages.

What are the police investigating?

FIRs have been registered under relevant sections related to obscenity and misuse of digital platforms. Cyber ​​crime officers are now working to identify the individuals behind the accounts, many of which operate anonymously or under pseudonyms.

Investigators are analyzing technical data such as IP addresses, device information and transaction trails to establish ownership and intent. According to police sources, notices and summons are likely to be issued after the preliminary verification is completed.

Cyber ​​crime police have also warned that merely deleting posts after an FIR is registered will not save criminals, as the digital footprint and stored data can still be recovered during investigation.

Complainant speaks on case

Speaking to News18 Kannada, complainant Sriharsha said that he approached the police after repeatedly coming across accounts that openly promoted sexual content using indirect tactics.

He said the police collected all the relevant links and account details and sent them for technical analysis. According to him, the next phase of investigation will determine the legal consequences for the account holders.

A blanket warning to content creators

Police officials say the action should be seen as a warning to social media users who believe online spaces operate outside the law. While the platforms encourage creativity and free expression, officials stress that there are clear legal limits, especially when the content is obscene, misleading or harmful to the public.

Officials also pointed out that such content often spreads rapidly due to algorithm-driven amplification, making timely intervention critical. They say the action is part of a broader effort to ensure safe digital spaces, especially for children and young users.

What users should know

Police have urged citizens to report objectionable or obscene content rather than ignoring it or sharing it further. Complaints can be filed directly with cyber crime cells or through official online portals, which will help authorities take action before such content spreads widely.

For creators, the message is simple. Gaining followers through shocking value or explicit content may attract short-term attention, but it can also invite serious legal trouble. As Bengaluru Police officials said, social media fame does not confer exemption from the law.

As the investigation continues, more accounts may come under scrutiny, a sign that enforcement agencies are keeping an eye on online spaces more closely than ever before.