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BBC investigation reveals Instagram ads promoting child sexual abuse material in India

Nexus Europa Newsroom
Posted Jul 3, 2026, 05:30 AM UTC · In the digest of 2026-07-03-0530
BBC investigation reveals Instagram ads promoting child sexual abuse material in India

A BBC Eye investigation has found that Instagram ran paid advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in India, linking users to Telegram channels where such content was sold.

A BBC Eye investigation has uncovered that Instagram displayed paid advertisements promoting child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in India. The investigation found that these ads utilized search terms such as "rape video" and "child video," directing users to channels on the messaging application Telegram. On these Telegram channels, the illicit material was reportedly available for purchase, with prices starting from approximately 99 rupees (around $1). This discovery highlights the platform's role in facilitating access to illegal content within the region. Sources: BBC News

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