IPOH: The police are investigating an incident where two 15-year-old schoolgirls were tricked into sending their nude photos to an individual claiming to be a doctor.
Manjung OCPD Asst Comm Hasbullah Abd Rahman said the teenagers were asked to provide their personal and family information, with the photos supposedly required for cervical and breast cancer examinations.
ACP Hasbullah said someone who claimed to be a teacher contacted the victims via the Telegram messaging app.
"The 'teacher' then introduced the girls to another man who claimed to be a doctor.
"The photos were sent through the same app, as it was claimed that photos would suffice without a physical examination," he said in a press statement on Saturday (July 19).
"The girls realised they had been deceived after informing their real teacher and subsequently lodged a police report, fearing their photos would be spread.
"The case is now being investigated under Section 15(a) of the Sexual Offences Against Children Act," he added.
ACP Hasbullah advised parents and school authorities to be more vigilant regarding sexual offences against children.
"Children and school pupils should always be reminded not to easily give or share their personal details with unfamiliar individuals.
"We also urge people to activate two-step verification on messaging apps to protect their accounts," he said.
"Those with information regarding the case can contact investigating officer Insp Nur Munawarah Ahmad on 011-1624 0391, the Manjung operations room at 05-688 6222, or the WhatsApp Hotline at 017-682 8005 to assist with the investigation," he added.
