Accra: The Ghana Association of Privacy Professionals (GAPP) has condemned the reported non-consensual recording and publication of intimate videos and photographs of Ghanaian women by a foreign national.
According to Ghana News Agency, the association described the alleged acts as a grave violation of privacy and personal dignity in a statement issued in Accra. GAPP emphasized that no individual should have their private moments recorded or shared without consent, highlighting the impact on the lives of the women involved.
The association expressed solidarity with the affected women, acknowledging the pain, trauma, and public humiliation they are enduring. GAPP stated that the fundamental right to privacy, enshrined in the Constitution and protected by the Data Protection Act (Act 843), has been violated. The distribution of such sensitive personal data without explicit, informed consent is considered a flagrant and unforgivable offence.
GAPP noted that under the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843), identifiable images and video recordings are considered personal data, while intimate content qualifies as sensitive personal data requiring explicit consent before lawful processing. The alleged recording, storage, and publication of such material without consent may also constitute offences under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), including unlawful interference with privacy and cyber harassment.
The association called on the Ministry of Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, the Data Protection Commission, the Cyber Security Authority, the National Communications Authority, and law enforcement agencies to conduct swift and thorough investigations and ensure enforcement of the law. GAPP urged relevant state institutions to act without delay to protect victims and uphold the integrity of Ghana’s digital ecosystem.
GAPP also appealed to digital platforms to cooperate in removing unlawful content and strengthening safeguards to prevent similar abuses. The public was cautioned against viewing, downloading, or redistributing the material, as such actions could further harm victims and expose individuals to legal consequences.
Victims of non-consensual image sharing are encouraged to report incidents promptly to the appropriate authorities and affected platforms. Reaffirming its commitment to data protection and digital responsibility, GAPP stated it would continue to support public awareness efforts and collaborate with stakeholders to promote safer and more ethical use of technology in Ghana’s digital society.