The AFL is investigating the sharing and distribution of nude photos of at least 45 past and present players that have been shared across social media.
Police across Australia and the eSafety Commissioner were alerted to the situation by the AFL after the alarm was raised by a number of AFL clubs.
The Age can confirm that at least 45 past and present players are involved.
AFL House.Credit: Paul Rovere
The league became aware of the matter early this week when club representatives expressed their concern at the images distributed by an anonymous person or people across social media and dating apps.
“The images have been circulated by an anonymous person/s and it is alleged the files feature private and personal images of past and present AFL players however it is important to note that many of the images are yet to be verified for identification,” the league said in a statement.
The AFL also said that welfare support was being offered to any players who may be caught up in the situation.
“There appears to have been significant work involved in gathering the images and creating files for distribution,” the league said.
“The AFL has no information regarding why the personal images have been circulated illegally and without consent or what the motive is in doing so.
“While the AFL understands there may be great interest in this update, it wishes to reinforce the images have been shared illegally and without consent.
“The AFL asks everyone to please respect the rights and privacy of those past and present players who have had personal images illegally shared without their consent or approval.
“The AFL has offered welfare support for players who may be involved and will continue to work closely with their clubs.”
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