Bulgarian prosecutors have launched a large-scale investigation into a major scandal involving beauty salons across the country. According to complaints filed by dozens of women, hidden cameras were installed in these establishments, filming clients while they were receiving beauty treatments, particularly during moments when they were completely nude. The footage was then published on pornographic websites and Telegram channels without the women’s knowledge or consent.
Victims: From 15-Year-Olds to Prominent Figures
According to the prosecutor’s office, the victims of this shameful act include teenage girls as young as 15 to 17 years old. However, the scope of the crime extends further, encompassing prominent individuals holding sensitive positions. Local media report that among the footage published are videos featuring a judge, a prosecutor, several journalists, the daughters of a regional governor, and even the daughter of a police officer.
One victim told Bulgaria’s “Nova News” television: “First of all, I recognized my friends and acquaintances because many of us frequent that salon. When I saw familiar faces, I started searching in horror, hoping I wouldn’t see myself. It’s humiliating. You feel exploited. The worst part is knowing someone else might recognize me.”
How the Crime Occurred: From Laser Hair Removal to Live Streaming
Investigations indicate that the filming took place in several beauty salons, including two in the city of Burgas and one in Kazanlak. Authorities are also investigating the possibility that similar crimes occurred in salons in other cities.
According to the claimants, the cameras were positioned to focus directly on their private areas during procedures such as laser hair removal. Some victims have even alleged that these moments were broadcast live to viewers who paid with cryptocurrency.
A lawyer for one of the victims told the media: “I assume these clips have been viewed tens or hundreds of thousands of times. Anyone can do the simple math: if they were receiving 30 Euros per view, what a huge sum of money the perpetrators have made from this illegal activity.”
Despite the scandal, the accused beauty salons continue to operate. Their owners deny any involvement, claiming their security cameras were hacked.
The Bulgarian prosecutor’s office has confirmed that the recorded footage was shared on more than 10 foreign pornographic platforms as well as on social networks like Telegram and Facebook. Since these websites are hosted outside Bulgaria, the country’s authorities will have to seek international assistance, including from Interpol and the FBI, to have the content removed.
A spokesperson for the prosecutor’s office emphasized that the investigation is ongoing to determine who had access to the cameras and images and how they were distributed. Under Bulgarian law, the unauthorized distribution of pornographic content carries a penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine. In cases involving minors, the penalties are significantly more severe.
Euronews
