Social media has been abuzz in recent weeks following the leaked intimate videos of Equatorial Guinea’s National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF) Director General, Baltasar Ebang Engonga.
While scandals like this are not new, this incident stands out because, for once, a man is at the “receiving” end of such exploitation. Typically, women are the primary victims, as men often record private moments without their consent and later use them as blackmail.
In any case, those involved never expect their private videos to go public, which explains why such leaks continue to make headlines. The public, meanwhile, is left wondering why people persist in recording such moments, knowing the potential risks.
Why Couples Record Intimate Videos
Sex experts suggest that curiosity often drives couples to record themselves. “Most people have, at some point, wondered what they look like during sex,” an article by Almara Abgarian noted in May 2019, explaining that the only way to satisfy that curiosity is through video recordings.
For some couples, creating intimate videos strengthens their bond or introduces a new dimension of intimacy. According to Annabelle Knight, a sex and relationship expert, “Lots of couples get turned on watching themselves afterwards, making the experience more exciting.”
For those in long-distance relationships, videos can serve as a reminder of connection and passion during periods of separation. Others, like sex expert Stu Nugent, link the act to the human desire for validation or satisfaction, adding that filming oneself can provide a psychological thrill. “Perhaps we’re all narcissists at heart: filming ourselves lets us see ourselves as sexual beings repeatedly,” Nugent suggests.
Before You Press Record
Before recording intimate moments, it is crucial that both parties are sober and trust each other completely. Annabelle Knight advises, “Film with someone you trust, but agree to delete the footage in case of a breakup.”
Women, in particular, are more vulnerable to the consequences of leaked videos, often facing emotional trauma, public humiliation, and career damage. As Evelyn Mic aptly pointed out on her ‘X’ account, “Ebang slept with over 300 women and was hailed as a legend. But when a woman makes a mistake and sleeps with 10 men, she’s labeled a whore.”
To safeguard themselves, women are encouraged to take proactive steps, such as securing sensitive content on encrypted storage and avoiding shared devices or cloud backups. Experts warn, “Once recorded, the content can be copied or shared without your consent.”
Couples should also reflect on whether the benefits of recording truly outweigh the risks. Even with precautions, there’s always the possibility of blackmail, revenge leaks, or hacking. Ultimately, abstaining from recording such material remains the safest option.
What to Do If Your Private Video Is Leaked
In many countries, sharing intimate media without consent is a criminal offense. Victims are advised to file legal charges under laws addressing revenge porn or the non-consensual distribution of intimate content.
The psychological impact of such violations can be severe. Seeking counseling or joining support groups can help victims process the trauma and rebuild their confidence. Tragically, it is alleged that one of the women in Ebang’s leaked videos committed suicide. Similarly, Ugandan singer Desire Luzinda faced intense public criticism after her nude pictures were leaked in 2014. In a 2023 interview, Luzinda shared that turning to her faith helped her recover from the ordeal.
Victims can also work with cybersecurity experts to identify and remove leaked content from online platforms. Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage is among the public figures who reportedly took this approach to manage a revenge porn incident.
A Societal Issue
The misuse of intimate media is not just a personal problem—it’s a societal one. Governments must enforce stricter penalties for offenders, and online platforms hosting such content should be held accountable for its swift removal.
Raising awareness about digital safety and promoting respectful relationships can also play a significant role in preventing these violations. By tackling the issue collectively, we can work toward a safer digital environment for everyone.
