Question :

How to get protect from getting photos leaked from mobile phone…?

 

1. Legal Protection under Pakistani Law

In Pakistan, the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA) provides safeguards against unauthorized use, leaking, or sharing of personal data, including photos and videos:

  • Section 21 PECA: Criminalizes the unauthorized use, capture, or transmission of a person’s image, especially if it harms their reputation or privacy. Punishable with imprisonment (up to 7 years) and/or fine.

  • Section 41 PECA: Service providers (like mobile companies or repair shops) are bound to protect user data; breach may attract liability.

  • Section 24 PECA: Unauthorized access to information systems, including hacking into phones, is punishable.

  • Right to Privacy: The Constitution of Pakistan also protects the dignity and privacy of citizens (Article 14).

👉 If your private photos are leaked:

  • Immediately lodge a complaint with FIA Cyber Crime Wing (NR3C) via helpline 1991 or their online portal.

  • Provide evidence (screenshots, links, IMEI of phone if stolen, etc.).

  • A formal FIR under PECA can be registered, and culprits (including repair shop workers, hackers, or anyone misusing photos) can be prosecuted.

📌 2. Google Account & G-Drive Protection

Most smartphones are linked with Google services. To secure them:

  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) on your Google account to prevent unauthorized access.

  • Regularly review account activity via “Google Account → Security → Recent activity.”

  • Encrypt sensitive files before uploading to Google Drive. Use tools like VeraCrypt or password-protected ZIP files.

  • Avoid auto-sync of personal folders to cloud if not necessary.

  • Regularly change strong passwords (minimum 12+ characters, mix of letters, numbers, and symbols).

📌 3. Mobile Phone Loss, Theft & Repair Risks

  • Loss or Theft:

    • Always enable Find My Device (Android) or Find My iPhone. This allows remote wipe of data if the device is lost.

    • Note down the IMEI number of your phone. In case of loss, report it to PTA via IMEI blocking service (CPLC/Helpline) to disable the stolen phone.

  • Phone Repairs:

    • Data leakage often happens during repair. Before handing over your device:

      • Back up and factory reset your phone (if possible).

      • If reset is not possible, at least remove SD card and SIM card.

      • Visit only authorized service centers rather than local shops.

      • Encrypt your device storage so even if data is copied, it cannot be easily accessed.

📌 4. Preventive Cybersecurity Measures

  • Use phone encryption: Most Android & iOS devices have full-disk encryption enabled by default.

  • Lock screen security: Use strong PIN, fingerprint, or Face ID. Avoid simple patterns.

  • App permissions: Restrict photo gallery access only to trusted apps.

  • Secure backups: If backing up to external hard drive or USB, encrypt the device.

  • Avoid sharing phones casually with friends or repair shops without supervision.

  • Install security apps like antivirus and anti-theft trackers.

📌 5. Practical Tips to Reduce Risk of Leaks

  1. Avoid keeping highly sensitive photos on your phone. Store them in encrypted offline storage.

  2. Regularly delete unnecessary media from gallery and messaging apps (WhatsApp, Messenger).

  3. Use secure vault apps (with encryption) for private data.

  4. In case of exchanging your phone, wipe storage fully and overwrite with dummy data to prevent recovery.

✅ Conclusion:
Protection from photo leaks requires a combined legal + technical approach. Legally, Pakistan’s PECA 2016 provides remedies against offenders. Technically, securing your Google account, G-Drive, and phone (loss/repair situations) is critical. By practicing strong cyber hygiene, encryption, and taking legal recourse, when necessary, you can minimize the risk of your private photos being misused.

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