The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has ordered Meta to unmask an exploitation account. It also instructed Meta to identify the person behind social media profiles that distributed sexual content involving South African schoolchildren. The court also instructed Meta to shut down all related Instagram accounts and WhatsApp channels. This aims to curb the spread of such content.
The urgent interdict, issued on Monday, July 14, 2025, follows reports. Explicit material featuring minors circulated on Instagram and WhatsApp. As a result, the court compelled Meta to take immediate action against the exploitation account involved.
Meta Compelled to Act on Harmful Content
The Digital Law Company, led by social media law expert Emma Sadlier, brought the application to court. They argued that sharing this type of material causes serious harm to children and violates several legal protections. Their case highlighted the urgent need for Meta to intervene.
Judge Mudunwazi Makamu labelled the content as both exploitative and criminal. He ordered Meta to remove the accounts without delay. Further, Meta must hand over the user’s identity and contact details. Additionally, they must preserve all relevant data to assist in potential criminal investigations.
Call for Platform Accountability
The ruling marks a critical move toward holding social media companies responsible when their platforms host harmful or illegal content. It also reinforces the need to protect children’s rights to safety, privacy, and dignity.
By requiring Meta to unmask the exploitation account, the court reinforced public and legal expectations. It demands stronger oversight from tech companies.
Investigations Underway
While the user behind the content remains unidentified, the court gave Meta until 12:00 on July 15, 2025, to comply. Once the individual is named, authorities may move forward with criminal charges, with Meta’s cooperation being central to the investigation.
This case places increasing pressure on global tech firms. They must respond quickly and effectively when their platforms are used to exploit vulnerable groups online.
