Understanding Revenge Porn and How to Take Action

The non-consensual sharing of intimate content can includes photographs, videos, and even deepfake photomontages. When this crime is committed by a cybercriminal, it is considered sextortion, but when it is shared by a current or ex-partner, it takes a different name…Revenge Porn.

While this content may have been shared consensually within a trusting relationship, its unauthorized distribution is a violation of privacy and is illegal in most jurisdictions. Victims often endure public humiliation, harassment, and emotional trauma when their the leaked material is placed on different niche social blogs, adult websites, or mass text messages.

But victims of this form of NCII are often more fortunate than others. Why? Because, they have a personal relationship with the person who committed the crime, and this connection with criminal makes it easier to seek proper ramifications.

Are Revenge Porn and Sextortion the Same?

No, revenge porn and sextortion are distinct crimes. While both involve the exploitation of intimate content, one is classified as an act of extortion/blackmail and the other an act of abuse.

Is Revenge Porn Illegal?

Yes, in many countries, the non-consensual distribution of intimate images is a criminal offense. Nations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia impose severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for individuals found guilty of sharing such content with malicious intent. These laws hold perpetrators accountable, regardless of their location, and aim to deter the spread of intimate material without consent.

Why Are Revenge Porn Cases Increasing?

In our digital age, many platforms enable users to easily create anonymous accounts and post without fear of revealing their identity. This paired with VPNs and other technologies has created this idea that anyone can create and post without linking their real identity to this content.

While it does provide some anonymity, it does not prevent certain professionals from investigating and discovering the culprits. As many who have participated in act of revenge porn have discovered, it only takes the involvement of the right forensic expert to discover the IP, device, and identity of the person who had originated the content.

Are You a Victim of Revenge Porn?

Discovering that someone you trusted has shared your intimate content can be devastating. In some cases, perpetrators even create deepfakes or photomontages to further damage a victim’s reputation. It is essential to remember that sharing intimate material without consent is a crime, and, as the victim, you are not to blame for the actions of your ex.

That being said, you hold the responsibility of reporting these individuals to the proper authorities to make sure they are held accountable for their actions.

Step 1: Take Immediate Action

1. Document Everything: Take screenshots of the evidence you have on when the content was shared and any messages your partner may have sent threatening to post/leak it.
2. Avoid Interaction: While it may be tempting to confront the person who leaked your content, we suggest you avoid any direct communication with them while you work with law enforcement and other organizations that deal in this cybercrime.

Step 2: Work With Professionals

1. Report The Incident to The Police: Most law enforcement officers can take immediate action on your behalf with proper proof of the crime. If your ex partner attempted to cover their tracks you may want to consult with a third party that specializes in incident response.
2. Consult With Cyber Security Experts: If your ex attempted to cover their tracks by posting anonymously or proclaims that the leak of your content was done due to being “hacked”, you may wish to consult a cyber security firm that specializes in a type of investigation called digital forensics. Many of these professionals can also work with you to remove your content from different sites or applications.
3. Work With An Attorney: With the right evidence an attorney can work on your behalf to pursue civil and criminal suites for the damages your partner caused.

Please note that if you are a minor or the content was used in the leak was created when you were a minor, you should report the incident to the National Center For Missing & Exploited Children. Acts of revenge porn involving minors are handled differently. If this is your situation, click here.

The Damage Caused by Revenge Porn

The consequences of revenge porn are severe and far-reaching. Victims often experience anxiety, depression, social isolation, and professional setbacks. According to CyberCivilRights.org⁽¹⁾, 42% of victims required psychological therapy, and 83% reported significant social or occupational impairment. Despite the challenges, numerous organizations and professionals are dedicated to helping victims reclaim their lives.

The Road To Recovery for Victims of Revenge Porn

While the journey to recovery may seem daunting, there are actionable steps victims can take:

1. Identify The Perpetrators: Everything in the digital world leaves evidence like a cyber-fingerprint
2. Collaborate With Law Enforcement: Seeking justice is your right as a victim.
3. Work to Remove The Content: The time frame for removing your content from the internet can be short or long depending on where your partner posted it. But there are different for and non-profit companies that can assist you with this.

How Digital Forensics Corp. Can Help

At Digital Forensics Corp., our team of cyber security professionals work round the clock to help victims of cybercrimes find their abusers and protect their digital reputation. If you are a victim of revenge porn seek help in identifying the source of your leak, we can help.

Our goal in these cases is to first identify the source of the leak and then collaborate with the right organizations to remove your content from the web.

For a complimentary consultation on your rights and potential timeframe in which we can take action on your behalf, please contact our Support Line. Our team members are standing by 24/7 and ready to assist.

Sources:

1. https://www.cybercivilrights.org/

DISCLAIMER: THIS POST IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT TO BE CONSIDERED LEGAL ADVICE ON ANY SUBJECT MATTER. DIGITAL FORENSICS CORP. IS NOT A LAWFIRM AND DOES NOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE OR SERVICES. By viewing posts, the reader understands there is no attorney-client relationship, the post should not be used as a substitute for legal advice from a licensed professional attorney, and readers are urged to consult their own legal counsel on any specific legal questions concerning a specific situation.