Cybersecurity experts are sounding the alarm over a viral link known as the ‘19-minute video,’ which is rapidly circulating on platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Users attempting to view the clip are falling prey to scammers exploiting its popularity to deploy malware and siphon off banking credentials.
The viral craze, driven by curiosity over an unverified intimate clip, is being exploited by scammers to spread malware, steal banking credentials, and compromise personal devices. Officials have advised people to refrain from clicking on links related to the video, emphasizing that cybercriminals are taking advantage of its viral popularity to ensnare unsuspecting individuals.
The term '19-minute video'— referring to a 19-minute and 34-second clip purportedly depicting a couple in a private moment — has generated significant search interest. Social media chatter claims the clip is a 19-minute and 34-second MMS purportedly featuring a young couple. While some reports suggest it contains intimate content, others point to explicit audio allegedly present in the footage.
There are also mentions of additional videos labeled as ‘Season 2’ and ‘Season 3’ following the original title. Experts and users have speculated that the clip could be a deepfake or manipulated using AI technology.
There are also mentions of additional videos labeled as ‘Season 2’ and ‘Season 3’ following the original title. Experts and users have speculated that the clip could be a deepfake or manipulated using AI technology.
The viral term refers to a supposed 19-minute 34-second clip allegedly showing a couple in an intimate act. While the clip’s origin is unverified, the buzz around it has driven massive search traffic, giving cyber scammers a chance to exploit unsuspecting users.
Cybersecurity experts say these are the ways scammers can target you:
Malware downloads: Fake ‘19-minute video’ links can secretly install harmful software on your device.
Information theft: The malware can steal personal data, including login credentials and banking details, enabling financial fraud.
Deceptive tactics: Fraudsters run fake social media accounts, charge for access to the non-existent video, or trick users into clicking malicious URLs.
Experts also warn that attempting to view such content—even if it existed—could carry serious legal and personal risks.
Cybersecurity experts urge users to stay alert and take precautions online. Avoid clicking on suspicious links claiming to offer the viral video, and report accounts that circulate such content. Ensure your antivirus software is up to date and run a full scan if you accidentally open a risky link. Most importantly, refrain from sharing or engaging with explicit or unverified material on social media to protect both your devices and personal information.
Legal experts warn that circulating explicit content online is a serious criminal offence under Indian law, beyond just cybersecurity risks. Under the IT Act, Section 67, sharing obscene material can lead to up to three years in prison and a ₹5 lakh fine, while Section 67A prescribes up to five years’ imprisonment and a ₹10 lakh fine for content depicting sexual acts.
Additionally, IPC Sections 292, 293, and 354C criminalise the creation, sharing, and viewing of obscene or voyeuristic content. Authorities emphasize that these laws apply even if the content is forwarded unintentionally or without malicious intent.
