Complaints are flooding into Italy’s Postal Police after women discovered their photos stolen and posted on sexist websites. Phica.eu and another site, My Wife, carried manipulated photos of politicians, actresses, influencers, and private citizens.
Police said Thursday they are investigating the operators and how the photos were stolen and distributed online. Investigators are also seeking those responsible for offensive comments accompanying the stolen images.
Several centre-left Democratic Party (PD) politicians denounced the sexist websites, including Valeria Campagna, Alessandra Moretti, Alessia Morani, Lia Quartapelle, and Simona Malpezzi.
Marta Bonafoni of the PD called the revelations “appalling and alarming,” adding solidarity with the affected women. She condemned the use of online platforms to spread “sexist and retrograde” comments about women without their consent.
PD member Peppe Provenzano said Italy needs greater awareness among men and deeper reflection on male behaviour in society. PD’s national school coordinator Irene Manzi stressed the role of education in preventing violence and supporting victims.
PD MPs Sandro Ruotolo and Pierfrancesco Majorino also condemned the abuse, calling for accountability and stronger male voices against sexism.
Phica shutting down
Phica.eu has since announced its closure, removing all content following the wave of public and political complaints.
A statement from administrators said the platform was intended as a “personal discussion and sharing” space but was misused.
“If your rights have been violated, please write to us so we can remove it,” the notice added.
The site’s name rhymes with “fica,” Italian slang for vagina, a detail that drew further criticism from politicians.
