The online leak of nude photos of reportedly 45 past and present AFL players has been described as “grubby” by Jimmy Bartel, among others.

The AFL has launched an investigation into a collection of “private and personal images” of players form a number of clubs.

Former Police Officer and Surf Online Safe founder Paul Litherland told Mick and Gena on 6PR Breakfast it is a sad reminder of the vulnerability everyone faces in their online lives.

“The fact that an image or video that may have been taken a while ago can just keep recycling is a fear that people who have been exposed in this way have to deal with,” Mr Litherland said.

Press PLAY to hear more about the shocking photo leak

Image: Getty/Daniel Kalisz