FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
An investigation by the BBC Global China Unit has brought to light an alarming phenomenon that affects the privacy of thousands of citizens in China: the massive use of hidden cameras in hotel rooms to record intimate footage of customers, which is then broadcast on online platforms for financial gain.
The specific case reported by the BBC concerns a man identified by the pseudonym “Eric,” who in 2023 accidentally discovered that he and his partner had been filmed without their knowledge during a stay at a hotel in Shenzhen. The footage was shared on online channels and viewed by thousands of users, just a few weeks after their stay at the hotel.
According to the investigation, the recordings are made through very small cameras hidden in hotel rooms, which are directly connected to "live" broadcasting systems.
The BBC reports that several websites and apps, mainly promoted through the Telegram platform, claim to manage over 180 active cameras installed in various hotels across China.
Although Chinese laws strictly prohibit the production and distribution of pornographic materials, this phenomenon has existed for years and, according to the BBC, has recently escalated due to technological development and the massive use of social networks.
In an attempt to curb the practice, Chinese authorities passed new regulations in April last year that require hotels to conduct periodic checks for hidden filming devices. However, the investigation shows that the measures have not been sufficient.
The BBC identified thousands of new videos recorded in hotel rooms, while estimating that the number of people filmed without their knowledge could be much higher, based on the usual flow of customers in these environments.
The scandal raises serious concerns about security, privacy, and the failure of control mechanisms, bringing to light the real risk that every person faces when staying in hotels.
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