Image-based abuse, also known as “revenge porn” or non-consensual pornography, is the distribution of sexually explicit images or videos without the consent of the person depicted. This can include images or videos that were taken with the person’s consent, but were shared without their knowledge or permission.
Image-based abuse is a form of online harassment and can have serious consequences for the victim, including emotional distress, damage to personal and professional reputation, and even physical harm. It is also an extreme violation of one’s privacy.
Many countries have laws in place to address this kind of abuse, but enforcement and prosecution can be difficult. Prevention is key, and victims are advised to take steps to protect their privacy, such as not sharing intimate images or videos with others and using strong passwords and security settings on social media accounts.
Resources for victims of image-based abuse:
- Take It Down is for people who have images or videos of themselves nude, partially nude, or in sexually explicit situations taken when they were under the age of 18 that they believe have been or will be shared online. This site is run through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.
- StopNCII.org is a free tool designed to support victims of Non-Consensual Intimate Image (NCII) abuse. This website is for adults over 18 years old who think an intimate image of them may be shared, or has already been shared, without their consent.