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Viral '12:46' Leak Claims Debunked as Social Media Bait-and-Switch Scam

Investigations show the posts bait users to obscure domains demanding credentials or fake app installs.

Overview

  • OneIndia’s fact-check found no original private video tied to the 12:46 or 9:44 timestamps, with circulating clips traced to old, edited, or AI-generated footage.
  • Accounts on Instagram, Telegram, and X push users to comment, follow, or DM for a supposed full clip before sending links that promise the “original” video.
  • The links frequently lead to suspicious domains such as .xyz, .top, or .click where users face prompts for logins, fake media players, app installs, or “human verification.”
  • Cyber experts warn of malware infections and data theft tied to these flows and urge users to avoid unknown links and refuse any download or update requests.
  • Guidance emphasizes checking destination URLs, using trusted platforms for viral content, and noting that similar timestamp hoaxes have repeatedly targeted and defamed influencers.