Victim of Scotland’s worst online predator calls for tighter laws to stop him harming other women

Victim of Scotland’s worst online predator calls for tighter laws to stop him harming other women

Chantal Cameron, a victim of Scotland’s most notorious online predator, is urging for stricter laws to prevent perpetrators like him from causing harm to more women. Andreas Gkertsos, who has been charged under revenge porn legislation, has been banned from using the internet and social media after he stalked, attempted to blackmail, and harass nine women online. The predator, who started his malicious activities as a teenager by creating fake profiles and sending threats to women after obtaining intimate images, has left his victims in fear.

Chantal Cameron, a 23-year-old from Edinburgh, had to relocate after receiving relentless abuse and threats from Gkertsos through multiple fake accounts and phone numbers. Chantal expressed her concerns about the effectiveness of banning him from internet usage, as she believes there is insufficient enforcement capability to ensure compliance with such restrictions. She emphasised the necessity for stricter regulations, enhanced monitoring, and specific laws to prevent repeat offences by individuals like Gkertsos.

Experts, including public protection and crime specialist Professor Jane Monckton-Smith, share Chantal’s apprehensions about the predator’s potential to reoffend. With Gkertsos currently free while awaiting sentencing, there are fears that he could target more women in the future. Scottish Conservative shadow minister for victims and community safety Sharon Dowey MSP stressed the importance of effective policing and monitoring of offenders to safeguard the public.

While Gkertsos awaits sentencing later this month, Police Scotland acknowledged the challenges of completely eliminating risks posed by sex offenders but assured that they employ professional assessments, robust risk evaluation processes, and advanced technologies to manage and mitigate such risks. Despite efforts to address such threats, the intensity of Gkertsos’ activities has raised alarms about the need for improved laws and enforcement mechanisms to protect potential victims from online predators.

In conclusion, it is evident from Chantal Cameron’s ordeal and the concerns raised by experts and authorities that the menace of online predators like Andreas Gkertsos poses a significant threat to women’s safety. The case underscores the pressing need for comprehensive legal measures, stringent monitoring protocols, and proactive enforcement strategies to prevent such perpetrators from causing further harm in the digital realm. Addressing the loopholes in current regulations and enhancing law enforcement capabilities are crucial steps towards safeguarding individuals from online harassment and exploitation.