Qassim governor condemns exploitation of elderly for online fame

Faisal bin Mishaal bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Qassim Region, has condemned the exploitation of parents and elderly people by filming their reactions to amuse viewers and increase online views for the sake of fame and financial gain, describing such acts as disrespectful and a violation of the dignity of seniors and their innocence.

He said: "It is unfortunate that some people deliberately exploit their parents or elderly individuals by filming their reactions to make followers laugh and boost viewership, seeking fame and material benefits. These practices are a form of disrespect and undermine the dignity of the elderly, taking advantage of their spontaneity."

His remarks came during a talk titled "The Difference Between Documentation and Filming" at Al-Tawhid Palace in Buraidah, where he received a number of religious leaders and civilian and military officials, in the presence of Deputy Governor Fahad bin Saad bin Faisal bin Saad.

The governor's comments highlighted the importance of preserving the status of parents and the elderly, and not turning private family moments into content aimed at attracting followers and making profits, especially amid the widespread use of social media platforms and the growing volume of video content that may infringe on individuals' privacy and dignity.

The meeting also featured Abdul Latif bin Mohammed Al-Abdullatif, Chairman of the General Authority for Media Regulation, who outlined the authority's role in organizing, developing, and enabling the media sector. He noted that its work covers audiovisual media, publishing, advertising, and electronic games, as well as issuing licenses and permits, monitoring media content, and ensuring compliance with sector regulations.

Al-Abdullatif also addressed key violations related to filming and publishing, including breaches of privacy, disclosure of personal data without legal grounds, misleading the public through edited or distorted content, defamation, harming reputations, and infringing on the rights of content creators by using their work without proper authorization.

The discussion underscored the importance of raising awareness about responsible filming and publishing, distinguishing between documentation that preserves memories and actions that violate others' privacy or exploit their innocence, in order to protect rights and uphold social and family values.