What is revenge porn?
Revenge porn is not the legal name for this offence, but it is a term which is commonly used and understood. It is a sexual offence and typically, but not always, involves one half of a couple, or former couple, distributing intimate photographs of their, usually former partner, without their consent. It is referred to as revenge porn, as the act is often some form of payback for something the other partner did wrong or is alleged to have done wrong.
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 extends the scope of disclosing intimate images without the consent of the individual, also known as ‘revenge porn’. Threats to disclose intimate images or content that amounts to revenge porn with the intent to cause distress have also been made a criminal offence. The maximum penalty of 2 years imprisonment remains in place.
If someone has done this or is threatening to do this to you to make you do things you don’t want to, this is abuse.
For advice you can contact the police on telephone 101 (non-emergency number).
If you are under 18 there are laws that make it a crime to take, make, share, store and ask for indecent images of children (this means anyone under the age of 18). If you are under 18 and someone is pressuring you to do something sexual or threatening to share a 'rude' picture or film of you, there are people who can help you. You can report to CEOP or contact the police on 101. You might also want to check out So You Got Naked Online produced by the South West Grid for Learning.
