Rome, Aug. 28 (LaPresse) – The portal Phica.eu, at the center of controversy for publishing photos and videos illicitly taken from hundreds of women, including some political figures, has been shut down.
“It is time to clarify,” wrote the site’s operators in a statement. “Phica was created as a platform for discussion and personal sharing, with a space dedicated to those who wished to verify their identity and share their content in a safe environment. Unfortunately, as happens with any social network, there are always people who misuse platforms, damaging their original spirit and purpose. It happened with Facebook, with groups on Telegram, and it happened here as well. Despite our efforts, we were not able to stop in time all those toxic behaviors that pushed Phica to become, in the eyes of many, a place to avoid rather than one to feel proud of being part of. For this reason, with great regret, we have decided to close and permanently delete everything that was done wrong.”
Explaining their decision to shut down the portal, the operators of Phica.net added: “To avoid misunderstandings or false rumors, we want to stress once again that: Any form of violence: always prohibited, blocked, and reported. Minors or child pornography: never tolerated, always blocked and reported. Offenses against women, pack-like language, and derogatory behavior: prohibited, blocked, and reported. For over 20 years, we have always cooperated with Italian and international law enforcement authorities, actively contributing even to important cases (such as the one handled by Judge Cantone), providing data and support each time to bring offenders to justice. Phica was a community, with light and shadow, but above all with the desire to create a different space. We thank you for having been part of it.”