Category > Cyber Abuse, Violence & Abuse
REVENGE PORN & SEXPREADING
Revenge porn (‘sexpreading’) involves the distribution of sexually explicit images or videos, without consent of the individuals shown.
Revenge porn is often used to blackmail another person (mostly girls and women) into performing sex acts or to continue a relationship (sextortion) -or just as a mean to harm the person’s reputation.
The name revenge porn misrepresents what it actually is, as it suggests that the victim did something to deserve this crime, in effect placing blame on the victim. Even if the photos are taken consensually – for example within the context of an intimate relationship – posting these photos
online without consent (and the person knowing) with the intent to harm the victim is a nonconsensual and criminal act. This is CYBER SEXUAL ABUSE.
Even though it occurs most often after ending a relationship, “revenge” porn can occur in other types of relationships too (for example by a person you only have a virtual relationship with or someone that you are with, but not ‘together’).
Be aware that anything you share might be used against you! And there is a chance of this happening every time you send an image! It’s not your fault if it does, but it is important to ask for support!
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Measures have been taken against revenge porn. Social media sites like Facebook have started to take actions to etect and stop the spread of revenge porn.
Legislation has also been proposed to criminalize the posting of non-consensual nude pictures. Sites dedicated to the posting of revenge porn have been shut down and there is a growing awareness and movement to stop the spread of revenge porn.
5 GOOD THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT YOUR IMAGES and VIDEOS ONLINE!
- Don’t let anyone convince you that you have to send your intimate photos and videos to anyone, even if it ’s a person you really like.
- If your private photos or videos are shared or published somewhere online – know that this is not your fault! The only one to blame is the person who did this without your consent.
- Find an adult you trust and tell them what is going on. Your best friend and her older sister can be supportive, but in these serious situations it is good to talk to an adult, for example your parents, teachers, youth worker or others so they can support with what is needed.
- Think about reporting your case to the police. It is important for this kind of abuse to be recorded and for the person/s responsible to be held accountable for what they have done to you.
- If you are feeling anxious or distressed, try not to panic – reach out to a support service where you can talk to someone who understands what you’re going through.
