An Italian website that posted doctored images of well-known women, including Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, with obscene commentary, has announced its shutdown following backlash from female politicians and public outcry.
The explicit site, named Phica, a play on Italian slang for vagina, stated it has closed 'with great regret' due to the 'toxic behavior' of its users. Meloni condemned the site, expressing her disgust and calling for harsh repercussions against those responsible.
This decision comes after increasing anger over a related Facebook group, Mia Moglie (My Wife), notorious for sharing intimate images of partners without consent. Reports indicate this group was disbanded for violating policies against adult sexual exploitation.
Phica had amassed around 700,000 users and operated for two decades, despite prior complaints. Its 'VIP section' featured altered photos of female politicians, actresses, and influencers, often accompanied by vulgar and sexist comments. Alessandra Moretti, an MEP critical of the site, noted it had included incitements to violence and rape.
In a recent statement, Phica mentioned that it intended to create a safe environment for content sharing but admitted it had devolved into a platform people wished to distance themselves from. Following a petition with nearly 170,000 signatures for its closure, Phica has pledged to delete all content post-closure.
Italy's Postal Police confirmed an investigation was launched. The Prime Minister emphasized the necessity for women to report any non-consensual images, noting it is disheartening that in 2025, the violation of women’s dignity through online harassment persists.
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