How do I navigate revenge porn laws in my state if I’m a victim or know someone who is? What steps can be taken legally against perpetrators, and what support is available for victims in terms of legal recourse and protection?
Document everything - every interaction, attempt, contact, etc., and keep it in a safe place.
Do not give in to the demands. Giving in to demands will create more revenge porn and perpetuate the cycle.
Chances are the man is threatening others as well, and not just you. So if you don’t give in, he will likely find someone else and pursue them and leave you alone, unless you are a very desirable target for him.
Depending on the details, your history with the person, and how serious it is, you can go to the police and report the incident.
I know one person (let’s call him Drake) who was hit by revenge porn incident. His ex-boyfriend or whatever sends his nude picture to I think just about everyone on his friend’s list on Facebook. The ex-boyfriend also pretended to be Drake. Drake took it pretty hard but recovered later on. It was not a good time, but it passed.
If something happens and you are hit by revenge porn, please make a public announcement to warn others that someone is using your private pictures to cause you harm and that it is not you sending pictures but someone else. This will prevent any confusion in others. What I mean is, that when I received a nude photo of Drake from an unknown Facebook account, I assumed it was Drake sending it to me and was surprised, confused, and had many questions. Did he … wish to hook up with me? Was he interested in me? Why did he approach me this way?.. But it was not Drake sending nudes to me, it was his malicious ex-boyfriend. Knowing this ahead of time would have spared me from confusion and extra wonder, and just let me ignore the revenge porn and move on with my life.
If you’re dealing with revenge porn, immediately contact the platform where it’s posted to request its removal. Report the incident to the police as it’s illegal in many places. Reach out to a lawyer for legal advice and support. Also, consider talking to a counselor for emotional support during this difficult time.