Revenge Porn: Definition, Devastating Impact, and Legal Recourse

Revenge porn (non-consensual intimate imagery/NCII) is the distribution of sexual photos or videos without the depicted person's consent—often by an ex-partner to humiliate, control, or retaliate.

Impact on Victims

• Severe emotional trauma: shame, anxiety, depression, PTSD, suicidal ideation
• Reputational, professional, and educational harm
• Ongoing fear of re-victimization (images persist online)
• Financial costs: legal fees, content removal services, therapy

Legal Landscape

• Illegal in 48 U.S. states, D.C., and many countries (UK, Canada, Australia, EU).
• Laws criminalize distribution; some include threats to distribute.
• Civil remedies: restraining orders, damages, copyright claims.
• Platform obligations: Most major sites have NCII reporting and removal processes.

If You're Targeted

1. Document everything (screenshots, URLs, timestamps).
2. Report to platform(s) immediately.
3. Contact law enforcement—file a police report.
4. Seek legal aid: Cyber Civil Rights Initiative, Without My Consent.
5. Get emotional support: therapist, trusted friends, hotlines (RAINN, Crisis Text Line).

You are not to blame. The perpetrator committed a crime. Help exists.