Revenge Porn

This page provides information, advice, and guidance for individuals in the UK affected by image-based sexual abuse, often referred to as "revenge porn." Sharing or threatening to share intimate images or videos of someone without their consent is a serious form of abuse and is illegal in the UK.

What is Image-Based Sexual Abuse (Revenge Porn)?

Image-based sexual abuse occurs when private sexual photographs or videos are shared or threatened to be shared without the explicit consent of the person depicted. This can happen in various ways, including:

Direct Sharing: Sending images or videos to others via social media, messaging apps, or email.
Online Posting: Uploading images or videos to websites or online platforms.
Threatening to Share: Using the possession of intimate images or videos to blackmail, coerce, or humiliate someone.

The Devastating Impacts of Revenge Porn

The impact of image-based sexual abuse can be profound and long-lasting. Victims may experience a range of intense emotions and consequences, including:

Severe Emotional Distress: Feelings of shame, humiliation, anger, fear, anxiety, depression, and isolation are common.
Breach of Trust: The violation of privacy and trust can damage relationships with the person who shared the images and others.
Reputational Damage: Victims may fear how the shared content will affect their reputation, both personally and professionally.
Social Isolation: Feelings of shame and embarrassment can lead to withdrawal from social activities and relationships.
Cyberstalking and Harassment: Image-based abuse can be part of a wider pattern of online harassment and stalking.
Sleep and Eating Disturbances: The trauma can manifest physically.
Suicidal Thoughts: In severe cases, victims may experience suicidal ideation.

What to Do If You Are a Victim of Revenge Porn in the UK

If you are a victim of image-based sexual abuse, it's crucial to remember that it is not your fault and there is help available. Here are immediate steps you can take:

Prioritise Your Safety and Well-being: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or support service. Talk about what you're experiencing and allow yourself to feel your emotions.
Do Not Engage with the Perpetrator: Avoid contacting the person who shared or threatened to share the images. This can escalate the situation.
Collect Evidence: If possible, try to collect any evidence of the sharing or threats, such as screenshots, messages, website links, and dates. This information will be helpful when reporting. Do not try to find or access the images online yourself extensively, as this can be re-traumatising.
Report to Online Platforms: If the images have been shared on a social media platform or website, report the content directly to the platform's administrators. Most platforms have specific reporting mechanisms for non-consensual intimate images. Keep records of your reports.
Report to the Police: Image-based sexual abuse is a crime in the UK. You have the right to report it to the police. They can investigate the matter and potentially take action against the perpetrator. You can contact your local police force directly or report online through their website.
Seek Support from Specialist Organisations: Several organisations in the UK specialise in supporting victims of online abuse and image-based sexual abuse. They can offer emotional support, practical advice, and guidance through the reporting process. (See the "Where to Get Help" section below).

How to Report Revenge Porn in the UK

There are several ways to report image-based sexual abuse in the UK:

Local Police Force: Contact your local police station by phone or in person. You can find their details online.
Police Online Reporting: Many police forces in the UK have online reporting tools on their websites.
Action Fraud: Action Fraud is the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. While primarily for fraud, they can also provide guidance on reporting online abuse. You can report online or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Internet Watch Foundation (IWF): The IWF is a charity that works to remove child sexual abuse content and other illegal content from the internet. While their primary focus is child abuse, they also have a reporting mechanism for non-consensual intimate images of adults. You can report anonymously via their website.

What Happens After Reporting?

After you report image-based sexual abuse, the process will vary depending on who you report to:

Online Platforms: They will typically review your report and may remove the content and potentially suspend or ban the account responsible.
Police: They will assess the information you provide and may launch an investigation. This could involve taking a statement from you, gathering evidence, and potentially interviewing the perpetrator.
Specialist Organisations: They will offer you support and guidance, which may include emotional support, safety planning, and assistance with reporting to other agencies.

Legal Consequences for Sharing Revenge Porn in the UK

Sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent is a criminal offence in the UK. The law recognises the serious harm this can cause to victims. Perpetrators can face significant penalties, including:

Imprisonment: Depending on the severity of the case.
Fines: Substantial financial penalties.
Criminal Record: Which can have long-term consequences for employment and travel.

Where to Get Help and Support in the UK

It is essential to seek support if you have been affected by image-based sexual abuse. Here are some organisations in the UK that can help:

Victim Support: Provides free and confidential support to victims of crime, including online abuse. They can offer emotional support, practical help, and information about your rights.
Revenge Porn Helpline: A dedicated helpline providing advice and support to victims of image-based sexual abuse in the UK.
The Lucy Faithful Foundation: Supports victims of child sexual abuse and online exploitation, and can also offer guidance in cases of image-based abuse involving minors.
National Domestic Abuse Helpline: While focused on domestic abuse, they can also support victims of image-based abuse perpetrated by a current or former partner.
Samaritans: Offer confidential support to anyone in distress.
Your local police force: Can provide information and support after you have reported the crime.

Preventing Image-Based Sexual Abuse

Prevention is key. Here are some steps you can take:

Be Mindful of What You Share: Think carefully before sharing intimate images or videos of yourself with anyone. Once something is online, it can be difficult to control.
Trust Your Gut: If a relationship feels unsafe or controlling, be cautious about sharing intimate content.
Communicate Boundaries: Clearly communicate your boundaries regarding the sharing and storage of intimate images.
Understand the Law: Be aware that sharing or threatening to share intimate images without consent is illegal.

Remember: You are not to blame, and help is available. Please reach out to the resources listed above for support and guidance.