According to Chinese media, over 100,000 people were members of a Telegram group where images of women were shared without their consent.
Public shock over hidden‑camera Telegram forum
Following reporting on the existence of encrypted Telegram groups where secretly taken photos and videos of women—including sexually explicit images—were circulated, public outrage has surged across Chinese social media.
Chinese state‑run Southern Daily reported that a Telegram group called the “MaskPark tree hole forum” had more than 100,000 members—predominantly Chinese men—sharing non‑consensual sexual images including content secretly filmed using pinhole cameras in public and private locations.
Secret filming with hidden cameras
According to Chinese press, participants in the group used miniature “pinhole” or “needle‑eye” cameras disguised as everyday items—such as power sockets, screws, bottles, or incense holders—to secretly film women in places like malls, restrooms, university dorms, and even homes. Some videos were reportedly sold within the group or sub‑forums for profit.
Comparisons to South Korea’s “Nth Room” scandal
Observers have likened the group’s activities to South Korea’s infamous “Nth Room” case, where women were coerced or blackmailed into sharing explicit content that was then distributed on Telegram channels for thousands of paying users.
Access, censorship and social media reaction
Telegram is officially blocked in China, but users access it via VPNs. Hashtags related to the scandal on Weibo have reached over 270 million views, although some content has been censored, with searches returning messages such as, “This content cannot be displayed under relevant regulations”.
Legal and societal implications under scrutiny
Experts warn that existing Chinese laws are insufficient: unauthorised filming may carry only short administrative penalties, while distributing pornography can result in up to two years in prison—yet enforcement remains uneven and victims often face legal and cultural barriers to seeking justice. Activists are calling for stronger protections, legal reform, and attention to systemic misogyny.
From: khabarfoori