The different types of non-consensual sharing of intimate images
Unfortunately, even if you do not consent or agree to the conditions, someone may share your intimate images against your wishes. There are several red flags to watch out for in your partner’s behaviour:
- They take photos or videos of you without your consent.
- They encourage you to send intimate images or sexts against your will.
- They blackmail you if you refuse to send the images.
- They complain that you don’t seem enthusiastic if you refuse to send photos.
- They send photos or videos of you to other people with your permission.
- They refuse to delete photos or videos when you ask them to.
- They send intimate images to you without your consent.
If you have experienced any of these situations or have heard about someone who has, it could be helpful to talk to the person in question and ask for support from those who are close to you.
These acts of sexual violence are not only extremely serious, but also punishable by law.
These situations that are illegal or do not respect your consent correspond to different types of crime. They could fall into the category of child pornography, revenge porn, deepfakes or sextortion.
CHILD PORNOGRAPHY
Child pornography consists of images or videos that depict minors in sexual contexts. The creation, distribution, sharing or consumption of child pornography are serious crimes that violate the rights and dignity of minors.
If you are under 18 years old, a specialized resource like NeedHelpNow.ca can help you retrieve your images and remove them from the Internet.
REVENGE PORN
Revenge porn is a deeply hurtful act that is intended to harm, humiliate or otherwise damage the person represented in the images. Even if the images were originally consensually shared, one of the partners in a relationship may decide to make them public following a breakup, for example, in order to take revenge. Since the images are then in the public domain, it is very difficult to remove them from the Internet, which only adds to the victim’s suffering.
DEEPFAKE
Deepfake is a technology that allows videos to be manipulated by inserting very convincing images and voices. Being the target of a deepfake can be deeply disturbing and painful, because the video seems real and believable, when in fact it is completely false. It is an attack on a person’s identity and reality. It is completely normal to feel at a loss when faced with such a situation, because it deceives not only the victim, but also anyone who watches the video.
SEXTORTION
Sextortion is a form of blackmail that can be particularly frightening and distressing. It occurs when someone threatens to send an intimate photo or video of you to other people unless you send them money. Although this situation can leave you feeling trapped and vulnerable, it important to remember that there are people and resources that are ready to help you through this difficult time.
Options to help you regain control
The first step is to preserve evidence (if there is any), even if you don’t want to contact the police. You can document material that is online with photo or video screenshots, list the various websites where the images appear, etc. For a clear explanation of the steps involved in gathering evidence and filing reports, consult this excellent article on the Tech Safety Canada website.
If your boundaries have been crossed, if you feel uncomfortable or if you recognize yourself in what has been described earlier in the article, know that we believe you and that we support you.
You can talk to someone you trust, like a close friend or family member or a counsellor. The Sexual Violence Helpline offers you a calm, welcoming space for honest conversation. Whether you choose to contact us by phone or by chat, we will work together to determine what needs to be done and find specialized resources near you.
Don’t stay alone with your questions and feelings. We are here for you.
