The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) yesterday urged video bloggers (vloggers) and content creators to be responsible in coming up with videos that they upload on the internet and warned that those who engage in “dangerous pranks” such as kidnapping and robberies will be held liable.
ACG director Brig. Gen. Sidney Hernia made the call in the wake of increasing number of videos of pranks that are posted online.
“As social media and online platforms continue to grow in popularity, content creators have an ever-increasing reach and influence. And while prank content can be entertaining and amusing, some creators are taking it too far and creating dangerous, harmful, or illegal content,” the ACG said in a statement.
Hernia added: “We take this issue seriously and will hold those responsible accountable for their actions.”
He said that “vloggers must be aware that their content can significantly impact the public and ensure that they are not putting anyone’s safety or well-being at risk.”
Hernia said the ACG is exerting efforts to take down the video on the prank kidnapping of the Tukomi Brothers, whose content creators are facing charges of alarm and scandal before the Las Piñas City prosecutor’s office for the prank that went wrong.
The Tukomi Brothers has 4.21 million subscribers on YouTube and 4.21 million followers on Facebook.
The three bloggers recently staged a prank kidnapping in Las Piñas City, which was witnessed by a police officer. The cop drew his handgun thinking it was a real kidnapping, which prompted the brothers, who were wearing bonnets, to raise their hands and declare that the incident was merely a prank.
“The prank has caused considerable distress to those who witnessed it, and the video must be removed from all platforms,” said Hernia.
Hernia also appealed to the public to report to the PNP any content that are harmful and dangerous.
“By working together, we can create a safer and more responsible online environment for everyone,” said Hernia, adding: “PNP ACG has observed an increase in the number of incident reports of vloggers staging dangerous pranks, such as fake robberies or attacks, which have caused fear and panic in public places, disrupted public services, and endangered the safety of others.”
It said these pranks “have the potential to lead to serious injuries or even fatalities, and those involved in staging them could face criminal charges.”
