Revenge porn is a serious offense that can lead to criminal charges in New York. What may begin as an emotionally charged decision or attempt to embarrass someone can quickly escalate into a criminal case with lasting consequences.
If you are accused of sharing such content, it is not enough to argue that you once had a relationship with the person. What matters is whether the person depicted consented to the sharing of those images at the time and whether they had a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Posting or forwarding private images without consent
Sharing intimate images of someone without their permission, whether on social media, by text or through private messaging apps, can lead to criminal charges. This includes forwarding photos that someone else shared with you. If the person depicted did not consent and the images are identifiable, this action may be illegal.
Sharing content with the intent to cause harm
If images are shared with the goal of causing embarrassment, financial harm or emotional distress, you may be held legally responsible. Courts often look at the circumstances surrounding the posting and whether it appears to be retaliatory.
Using digitally altered or manipulated images
Digitally creating or modifying an image to make it appear as though someone is engaged in intimate acts may also fall under revenge porn law. Even if the original photo is not of the individual, realistic alterations that depict intimate parts or conduct can still lead to prosecution.
Publishing private images taken with prior consent
Consent to take an image does not equal consent to publish it. Even if someone allowed an image to be captured during a private moment, sharing it later without their permission may result in charges. The law recognizes that people have the right to expect privacy in those situations.
Revenge porn law aims to protect individuals from nonconsensual exposure. If you are facing accusations related to these actions, seeking legal guidance may be essential to understanding your options and defending against the charges.