Viral Spar lady takes own life after private video leak?

A woman tagged the ‘Spar lady’ on social media is the latest victim of rampant cyberbullying after reports surfaced claiming she committed suicide.

Did the ‘Spar lady’ commit suicide?

DISCLAIMER: Please be advised that this article contains content that explores adult themes. Due to the mature nature of these themes, it is intended for an audience aged 18 years and older. Reader discretion is advised.

The internet was ablaze on Tuesday, with social media divided across gender lines following controversies involving Drake and a woman identified by her work uniform as a Spar employee.

Drake, on one hand, caused pandemonium after a video of him allegedly fiddling with his own anatomy leaked online.

On the domestic front, a woman who recorded herself getting frisky while on duty caused a stir when the video, supposedly intended for the eyes of her romantic partner only, surfaced on social media.

With opinions divided on the morality of leaking a person’s nudes online, rumours quickly spread that the ‘Spar lady’, distraught from the shame of going viral for such reasons, had taken her own life.

However, we were reliably informed by sources close to the woman that, contrary to online speculation, the woman, whose identity remains private for her safety, is very much alive.

“The Spar lady is alive let’s stop spreading fake news,” the source revealed.

The origin of the leak remains unknown at this juncture.

What options do you have if someone leaks your nude content?

If like the ‘Spar lady’, you’re a South African woman dealing with the leak of an explicit video showing you in an intimate moment, it’s a deeply distressing situation.

South Africa has laws designed to protect individuals in such circumstances, and there are several legal avenues you can pursue.

Legal Options and Protections

1. Protection Against Harassment Act, 2011 (Act No. 17 of 2011): This act provides victims of harassment, including online harassment, with a remedy in the form of a protection order. If someone has shared or threatened to share intimate images of you without your consent, this could be considered harassment under the act.
2. Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 2007: Sharing intimate images or videos without consent can fall under the ambit of sexual offences under this act. The perpetrator can be charged with crimen injuria (the unlawful, intentional and serious violation of the dignity or privacy of another person) or even extortion if they are threatening to share such content to gain something from you or to cause harm.
3. Cybercrimes Act, 2020: This new legislation includes provisions that criminalize the malicious communication of sexual images. If someone distributes explicit images or videos of you without your consent, they could be found guilty of an offence under this act. The act aims to protect individuals’ privacy and dignity against cybercrimes, including the distribution of intimate images.
4. Film and Publications Act, 1996 (as amended): This act regulates the creation, possession, and distribution of certain materials, including pornographic material. While its primary focus is on the commercial aspects of such materials, amendments have broadened its scope, potentially offering avenues to address non-consensual distribution.

Penalties for Perpetrators

The penalties vary depending on the specific laws under which the perpetrator is charged. They could face:

• Fines: The amount can vary significantly based on the act under which they are charged.
• Imprisonment: Sentences can range from a few years to, in severe cases, over a decade, especially if the act is considered part of a pattern of sexual offences or involves minors.
• A Criminal Record: Conviction under these acts can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment and travel opportunities.

Steps to Take

1. Contact the Police: Report the incident to the South African Police Service (SAPS) to initiate an investigation.
2. Legal Advice: Seek advice from a lawyer who specialises in privacy or cyber law to understand your options and the best course of action.
3. Protection Order: If you’re being harassed or threatened, consider applying for a protection order under the Protection Against Harassment Act.
4. Support Services: Contact organizations that support victims of cybercrimes and sexual offences. They can provide counselling, and legal advice, and help you navigate the process.