C.A. Goldberg: Civil litigators when privacy and control are in jeopardy

Nonconsensual pornography is sexual abuse. It is also a crime. The shame for such a cruel violation is on the offender – not the victim.

To enlist a highly experienced team to support you in achieving the best possible outcome, get in touch to explore your options at 646-666-8908 or through our online contact form for a 100% confidential consultation. Orders of Protection can be a helpful tool if you are being threatened with intimate images by an ex – you can learn more about Orders of Protection here.

States with Revenge Porn Laws

  • CRIMINAL

    Alabama Code Title 13A. Criminal Code Section 13A-6-240: Distributing a Private Image; Creating a Private Image.

    • (a)(1) A person commits the crime of distributing a private image if he or she knowingly posts, emails, texts, transmits, or otherwise distributes a private image when the depicted individual has not consented in writing to the transmission and the depicted individual had a reasonable expectation of privacy against transmission of the private image.
    • (2) A person commits the crime of creating a private image if he or she knowingly creates, records, or alters a private image when the depicted individual has not consented to the creation, recording, or alteration and the depicted individual had a reasonable expectation of privacy against the creation, recording, or alteration of the private image.
    • A violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor. A subsequent adjudication or conviction under this section is a Class C felony.

    Alabama Code Title 13A. Criminal Code Section 13A-6-241 Sexual Extortion

    • (a) A person commits the crime of sexual extortion if he or she knowingly causes or attempts to cause another person to engage in sexual intercourse, sodomy, sexual contact, or in a sexual act or to produce any photograph, digital image, video, film, or other recording of any person, whether recognizable or not, engaged in any act of sadomasochistic abuse, sexual intercourse, sodomy, sexual excitement, masturbation, breast nudity, genital nudity, or other sexual conduct by communicating any threat to injure the body, property, or reputation of any person.
    • (b) Sexual extortion is a Class B felony.

  • CRIMINAL

    Alaska Statutes 11.61.120: Harassment in the second degree

    • (a) A person commits the crime of harassment in the second degree if, with intent to harass or annoy another person, that person
    • (6) except as provided in AS 11.61.116, publishes or distributes electronic or printed photographs, pictures, or films that show the genitals, anus, or female breast of the other person or show that person engaged in a sexual act;
    • Harassment in the second degree is a class B misdemeanor.

    Alaska Statutes 11.61.123: Indecent viewing or production of a picture

    • (a) A person commits the crime of indecent viewing or production of a picture if the person knowingly
    • (1) views, or views a picture of, the private exposure of the genitals, anus, or female breast of another person; or
    • (2) produces a picture of the private exposure of the genitals, anus, or female breast of another person.
    • (b) Each viewing of a person, and each production of a picture of a person, whose genitals, anus, or female breast are viewed or are shown in a picture constitutes a separate violation of this section.
    • (g) Indecent viewing or production of a picture is a
      • class B felony if the person violates (a)(2) of this section and the person shown in the picture was, at the time of the production of the picture, a minor;
      • (2) class C felony if the person violates (a)(1) of this section and the person viewed was, at the time of the viewing, a minor; or in the picture was, at the time of the production of the picture, a minor; or
      • (B) violates (a)(2) of this section and the person shown in the picture was, at the time of the production of the picture, an adult;
      • (3) class A misdemeanor if the person violates (a)(1) of this section and the person viewed
    • (A) was, at the time of the viewing, an adult; or
    • (B) in the picture was, at the time of the production of the picture, an adult.

  • CRIMINAL

    13-1425. Unlawful disclosure of images depicting states of nudity or specific sexual activities; classification; definitions

    • It is unlawful for a person to intentionally disclose an image of another person who is identifiable from the image itself or from information displayed in connection with the image if all of the following apply:
      • The person in the image is depicted in a state of nudity or is engaged in specific sexual activities.
      • The depicted person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.  Evidence that a person has sent an image to another person using an electronic device does not, on its own, remove the person’s reasonable expectation of privacy for that image.
      • The image is disclosed with the intent to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten or coerce the depicted person.
    • A violation of this section is a class 5 felony, except that a violation of this section is a:
      • Class 4 felony if the image is disclosed by electronic means.
      • Class 1 misdemeanor if a person threatens to disclose but does not disclose an image that if disclosed would be a violation of this section.

  • CRIMINAL

    Amended Arkansas Code 5-26-314: Unlawful distribution of an intimate image

    • A person commits the offense of unlawful distribution of an intimate image if, being eighteen (18) years of age or older, he or she purposely distributes an intimate image of an identifiable person without the consent of the identifiable person depicted in the intimate image.
    • Unlawful distribution of an intimate image is a:
      • Class C felony for a:
        • Second or subsequent offense under subdivision (d)(2)(A) or subdivision (d)(2)(B) of this section; or
        • (B) Third or subsequent offense under subdivision (d)(3) of this section;
      • Class D felony:
        • If the person had a purpose to cause physical injury or mental, economic, or reputational harm to the identifiable person depicted in the intimate image;
      • If the person received anything of value in return for the commission of the offense; or
      • For a second offense under subdivision (d)(3) of this section; or
      • Class A misdemeanor if otherwise committed.

    Arkansas Code 5-14-139: Unlawful creation or distribution of deepfake visual material.

    • A person commits the offense of unlawful creation or distribution of deepfake visual material if he or she, without consent of the person depicted, knowingly creates or distributes deepfake visual material that depicts another identifiable person:
      • (1) In a state of nudity such that an ordinary person viewing the deepfake visual material would conclude that the depiction is of the identifiable person in a state of nudity; or
      • (2) Engaging in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, deviate sexual activity, or sexually explicit conduct such that an ordinary person viewing the deepfake visual material would conclude that the depiction is of the identifiable person engaging in sexual contact, sexual intercourse, deviate sexual activity, or sexually explicit conduct.
    • Unlawful creation or distribution of deepfake visual material is:
      • For a first offense, a Class A misdemeanor; and
      • For a second or subsequent offense, a Class D felony.

    CIVIL

    Arkansas Code 16-118-119. : Civil action for unlawful creation of deepfake visual material.

    • The Attorney General may institute a civil action on behalf of the state against a provider or developer of image generation technology that was used to create deepfake visual material in violation of § 5-14-139 if:
      • (1) The deepfake visual material that was created in violation of § 5-14-139 was generated substantially or in its entirety by a prompt based image generation technology; and
      • (2) The provider or developer of the image generation technology did not have reasonable safeguards in place to protect against the generation of deepfake visual material.
    • A person injured or damaged by reason of a violation of § 5-14-139 may bring a civil action against a person or entity that:
      • (A) Is the provider or developer of the image generation technology that was used to create the deepfake visual material; or
      • (B) Caused or was responsible for the creation of deepfake visual material in violation of § 5-14-139.
    • The court may award actual damages, compensatory damages, punitive damages, injunctive relief, or any other appropriate relief.
    • A prevailing plaintiff shall be awarded reasonable attorney’s fees and costs.

  • CRIMINAL

    California Penal Code § 647(j)(4)

    • A person who intentionally distributes or causes to be distributed the image of the intimate body part or parts of another identifiable person, or an image of the person depicted engaged in an act of sexual intercourse, sodomy, oral copulation, sexual penetration, or an image of masturbation by the person depicted or in which the person depicted participates, when subclauses (I) to (III), inclusive, are all true:
      • (I) The person distributing the image knows or should know that the distribution of the image will cause serious emotional distress.
      • (II) The person depicted suffers serious emotional distress.
      • (III) One of the following has occurred:
        • The person depicted in the image and the person distributing the image had agreed or had an understanding that the image shall remain private.
        • The image was knowingly recorded, captured, or otherwise obtained by the person distributing the image without the authorization of the person depicted, and the image was recorded or captured under circumstances in which the person depicted had a reasonable expectation of privacy.
        • The image is knowingly obtained by the person distributing the image by exceeding authorized access from the property, accounts, messages, files, or resources of the person depicted.
    • A person who intentionally creates and distributes or causes to be distributed any photo realistic image, digital image, electronic image, computer image, computer-generated image, or other pictorial representation of an intimate body part or parts of another identifiable person, or an image of the person depicted engaged in an act of sexual intercourse, sodomy, oral copulation, sexual penetration, or an image of masturbation by the person depicted or in which the person depicted participates that was created in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to believe the image is an authentic image of the person depicted, under circumstances in which the person distributing the image knows or should know that distribution of the image will cause serious emotional distress, and the person depicted suffers that distress. This clause shall not apply to a person who was under 18 years of age at the time the person committed the offense.
    • A person intentionally distributes an image described in subparagraph (A) when that person personally distributes the image.
      • A person intentionally causes an image described in subparagraph (A) to be distributed when that person arranges, specifically requests, or intentionally causes another person to distribute the image.

    CIVIL

    California Civil Code § 1708.85

    • 1708.85. (a) A private cause of action lies against a person who intentionally distributes by any means a photograph, film, videotape, recording, or any other reproduction of another, without the other’s consent, if (1) the person knew, or reasonably should have known, that the other person had a reasonable expectation that the material would remain private, (2) the distributed material exposes an intimate body part of the other person, or shows the other person engaging in an act of intercourse, oral copulation, sodomy, or other act of sexual penetration, and (3) the other person suffers general or special damages as described in Section 48a.
    • (b) As used in this section, “intimate body part” means any portion of the genitals, and, in the case of a female, also includes any portion of the breast below the top of the areola, that is uncovered or visible through less than fully opaque clothing.
    • (c) There shall be no liability on the part of the person distributing material under subdivision (a) under any of the following circumstances:
    • (1) The distributed material was created under an agreement by the person appearing in the material for its public use and distribution or otherwise intended by that person for public use and distribution.
    • (2) The person possessing or viewing the distributed material has permission from the person appearing in the material to publish by any means or post the material on an internet website.
    • (3) The person appearing in the material waived any reasonable expectation of privacy in the distributed material by making it accessible to the general public.
    • (4) The distributed material constitutes a matter of public concern.
    • (5) The distributed material was photographed, filmed, videotaped, recorded, or otherwise reproduced in a public place and under circumstances in which the person depicted had no reasonable expectation of privacy.
    • (6) The distributed material was previously distributed by another person, unless the plaintiff served on the defendant, by certified mail, a notice to cease distribution of the material, and the defendant failed to cease distribution within 20 days of receiving the notice.
    • (d) In addition to any other relief available at law, the court may order equitable relief against the person violating subdivision (a), including a temporary restraining order, or a preliminary injunction or a permanent injunction ordering the defendant to cease distribution of material. The court may grant injunctive relief maintaining the confidentiality of a plaintiff using a pseudonym as provided in subdivision (f).
    • (e) The court may also grant, after holding a properly noticed hearing, reasonable attorney’s fees and costs to the prevailing plaintiff.
    • (f) (1) A plaintiff in a civil proceeding pursuant to subdivision (a), may proceed using a pseudonym, either John Doe, Jane Doe, or Doe, for the true name of the plaintiff and may exclude or redact from all pleadings and documents filed in the action other identifying characteristics of the plaintiff. A plaintiff who proceeds using a pseudonym and excluding or redacting identifying characteristics as provided in this section shall file with the court and serve upon the defendant a confidential information form for this purpose that includes the plaintiff’s name and other identifying characteristics excluded or redacted. The court shall keep the plaintiff’s name and excluded or redacted characteristics confidential.
    • (2) In cases where a plaintiff proceeds using a pseudonym under this section, the following provisions shall apply:
    • (A) All other parties and their agents and attorneys shall use this pseudonym in all pleadings, discovery documents, and other documents filed or served in the action, and at hearings, trial, and other court proceedings that are open to the public.
    • (B) (i) Any party filing a pleading, discovery document, or other document in the action shall exclude or redact any identifying characteristics of the plaintiff from the pleading, discovery document, or other document, except for a confidential information form filed pursuant to this subdivision.
    • (ii) A party excluding or redacting identifying characteristics as provided in this section shall file with the court and serve upon all other parties a confidential information form that includes the plaintiff’s name and other identifying characteristics excluded or redacted. The court shall keep the plaintiff’s name and excluded or redacted characteristics confidential.
    • (C) All court decisions, orders, petitions, discovery documents, and other documents shall be worded so as to protect the name or other identifying characteristics of the plaintiff from public revelation.
    • (4) The responsibility for excluding or redacting the name or identifying characteristics of the plaintiff from all documents filed with the court rests solely with the parties and their attorneys. Nothing in this section requires the court to review pleadings or other papers for compliance with this provision.
    • (5) Upon request of the plaintiff, the clerk shall allow access to the court file in an action filed under this section only as follows:
    • (A) To a party to the action, including a party’s attorney.
    • (B) To a person by order of the court on a showing of good cause for access.
    • (C) To any person 60 days after judgment is entered unless the court grants a plaintiff’s motion to seal records pursuant to Chapter 3 of Division 4 of Title 2 of the California Rules of Court.
    • (g) In an action pursuant to this section, the plaintiff shall state in the caption of the complaint “ACTION BASED ON CIVIL CODE SECTION 1708.85.”
    • (h) Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter or negate any rights, obligations, or immunities of an interactive service provider under Section 230 of Title 47 of the United States Code. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit or preclude a plaintiff from securing or recovering any other available remedy.
    • (i) The provisions of this section are severable. If any provision of this section or its application is held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application.
    • (j) The Judicial Council shall, on or before January 1, 2019, adopt or revise as appropriate rules and forms in order to implement subdivision (f).

  • Criminal

    Colorado Revised Statutes 18-7-107: Disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for harassment 

    • An actor who is eighteen years of age or older commits the offense of disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for harassment if the actor discloses or threatens to disclose through the use of electronic media or a website a private intimate image or an intimate digital depiction without the depicted individual’s consent:
      • with the intent to harass, intimidate, or coerce the depicted individual; or (b) when the actor knew or reasonably should have known that the depicted individual had a reasonable expectation that the private intimate image or intimate digital depiction would remain private; and
      • the disclosure or threat to disclose caused physical, emotional, or reputational harm to the depicted individual.
    • Disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for harassment is a class 1 misdemeanor; except that it is a class 6 felony if the actor disclosed the private intimate image or intimate digital depiction and the disclosure posed an imminent and serious threat to the depicted individual’s safety or the safety of the depicted individual’s immediate family and the actor knew or reasonably should have known of the imminent and serious threat.
    • An individual whose private intimate image has been disclosed in accordance with this section retains a protectable right of authorship regarding the commercial use of the private intimate image.

    CIVIL

    Colorado Revised Statutes 18-7-108: Disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for pecuniary gain

    • An actor who is eighteen years of age or older commits the offense of disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for pecuniary gain if the actor discloses or threatens to disclose through electronic or a website a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction without the depicted individual’s consent:
      • With the intent to obtain a pecuniary benefit from a person as a result of the disclosure, threatened disclosure, or retraction of the private intimate image or intimate digital depiction; or
      • When the actor knew or reasonably should have known that:
        • (a) the depicted individual had a reasonable expectation that the private intimate image or intimate digital depiction would remain private; and
        • (b) the disclosure would cause financial harm to the depicted individual.
    • Disclosing a private intimate image or intimate digital depiction for pecuniary gain is a class 1 misdemeanor; except that it is a class 6 felony if the actor disclosed the private intimate image or intimate digital depiction and the disclosure posed an imminent and serious threat to the depicted individual’s safety or the safety of the depicted individual’s immediate family and the actor knew or reasonably should have known of the imminent and serious threat.

  • CRIMINAL

    Connecticut General Statutes 53a-189c: Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image

    • A person is guilty of unlawful dissemination of an intimate image when (1) such person intentionally disseminates by electronic or other means a photograph, film, videotape or other recorded image of (A) the genitals, pubic area or buttocks of another person with less than a fully opaque covering of such body part, or the breast of such other person who is female with less than a fully opaque covering of any portion of such breast below the top of the nipple, or (B) another person engaged in sexual intercourse, as defined in section 53a-193, (2) such person disseminates such image without the consent of such other person, knowing that such other person understood that the image would not be so disseminated, and (3) such other person suffers harm as a result of such dissemination. For purposes of this subsection, “disseminate” means to sell, give, provide, lend, trade, mail, deliver, transfer, publish, distribute, circulate, present, exhibit, advertise or otherwise offer, and “harm” includes, but is not limited to, subjecting such other person to hatred, contempt, ridicule, physical injury, financial injury, psychological harm or serious emotional distress.
    • Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image to (1) a person by any means is a class A misdemeanor, and (2) more than one person by means of an interactive computer service, as defined in 47 USC 230, an information service, as defined in 47 USC 153, or a telecommunications service, as defined in section 16-247a, is a class D felony.

  • CRIMINAL

    Delaware Code Title 11, 1335: Violation of privacy

    • A person is guilty of violation of privacy when, except as authorized by law, the person: Knowingly reproduces, distributes, exhibits, publishes, transmits, or otherwise disseminates a visual depiction of a person who is nude, or who is engaging in sexual conduct, when the person knows or should have known that the reproduction, distribution, exhibition, publication, transmission, or other dissemination was without the consent of the person depicted and that the visual depiction was created or provided to the person under circumstances in which the person depicted has a reasonable expectation of privacy.
    • A person who has, within the context of a private or confidential relationship, consented to the capture or possession of a visual depiction of the person when nude or when engaging in sexual conduct retains a reasonable expectation of privacy with regard to the reproduction, distribution, exhibition, publication, transmission, or other dissemination of the visual depiction beyond that relationship.
      • For the purposes of this paragraph (a)(9), each of the following shall be an aggravating factor and shall be alleged in the charging information or indictment and constitute an element of the offense:
        • 1. The actor knowingly obtains such visual depictions without the consent of the person depicted.
          • A. A violation of this paragraph (a)(9)c.1. occurs when a person commits a theft as provided for in § 841, § 842, § 843, or § 844 of this title or obtains such visual depictions by committing unauthorized access to a computer system as provided for in § 932 of this title or by unauthorized access to electronic mail or an electronic mail service provider as defined in § 931 of this title.
          • B. A violation of this paragraph (a)(9)c.1. consistent with § 932 of this title is subject to the venue provision in § 940 of this title.
        • 2. The actor knowingly reproduces, distributes, exhibits, publishes, transmits, or otherwise disseminates such visual depictions for profit.
        • 3. The actor knowingly maintains an Internet website, online service, online application, or mobile application for the purpose of reproducing, distributing, exhibiting, publishing, transmitting, or otherwise disseminating such visual depictions.
        • 4. The actor knowingly reproduces, distributes, exhibits, publishes, transmits, or otherwise disseminates such visual depictions with the intent to harass, annoy, or alarm the person depicted and such conduct would cause a reasonable person to suffer significant mental anguish or distress.
        • 5. The actor pairs such visual depiction with personally identifiable information of the person depicted.
        • 6. At the time of the creation of the visual depiction, the actor was over the age of 18 and the person depicted was under the age of 18.
    • For purposes of this paragraph (a)(9), the fact the actor committed this offense within 5 years of a prior conviction for a violation of this paragraph (a)(9) shall be an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes only and, therefore, this fact is not to be alleged in the charging information or indictment and does not constitute an element of the offense.
    • Any violation of paragraph (a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), (a)(8), or (a)(9) of this section shall be a class A misdemeanor. Any violation of paragraph (a)(6), (a)(7), (a)(9)c., or (a)(9)d. of this section shall be a class G felony.

    CIVIL

    Delaware Uniform Civil Remedies for Unauthorized Disclosure of Intimate Images Act (Title 10, Ch. 78)

    • Except as otherwise provided under § 7804 of this title, a depicted individual who is identifiable and who suffers harm from a person’s intentional disclosure or threatened disclosure of an intimate image that was private without the depicted individual’s consent has a cause of action against the person if the person knew or acted with reckless disregard for all of the following:
      • (1) The depicted individual did not consent to the disclosure.
      • (2) The intimate image was private.
      • (3) The depicted individual was identifiable.
    • Except as otherwise provided under § 7804 of this title, a depicted individual who is identifiable and who suffers harm from a person’s intentional disclosure or threatened disclosure of a deep fake without the depicted individual’s consent has a cause of action against the person if the person knew or acted with reckless disregard for all of the following:
      • (1) The depicted individual did not consent to the disclosure.
      • (2) The depicted individual was identifiable.
    • The following conduct by a depicted individual does not establish by itself that the individual consented to the disclosure of the intimate image or deep fake which is the subject of an action under this chapter or that the individual lacked a reasonable expectation of privacy:
      • (1) Consent to creation of the image.
      • (2) Previous consensual disclosure of the image.
    • A depicted individual who does not consent to the sexual conduct or uncovering of the part of the body depicted in an intimate image of the individual retains a reasonable expectation of privacy even if the image was created when the individual was in a public place.
    • A person is not liable under this chapter if the person proves that disclosure of, or a threat to disclose, an intimate image or deep fake meets any of the following:
      • (1) Made in good faith in any of the following:
        • a. Law enforcement.
        • b. A legal proceeding.
        • c. Medical education or treatment.
      • (2) Made in good faith in the reporting or investigation of 1 or more of the following:
        • a. Unlawful conduct.
        • b. Unsolicited and unwelcome conduct.
      • (3) Related to a matter of public concern or public interest.
      • (4) Reasonably intended to assist the depicted individual.
    • If a defendant asserts an exception to liability under subsection (c) of this section, the exception does not apply if the plaintiff proves the disclosure was any of the following:
      • (1) Prohibited by law other than this chapter.
      • (2) Made for the purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification, humiliation, degradation, or monetary or commercial gain.
    • Disclosure of, or a threat to disclose, an intimate image or deep fake is not a matter of public concern or public interest solely because the depicted individual is a public figure.
    • (1) The court may exclude or redact from all pleadings and documents filed in the action other identifying characteristics of the plaintiff.
    • (2) A plaintiff to whom paragraph (1) of this section applies shall file with the court and serve on the defendant a confidential information form that includes the excluded or redacted plaintiff’s name and other identifying characteristics.
    • (3) The court may make further orders as necessary to protect the identity and privacy of a plaintiff.
    • In an action under this chapter, a prevailing plaintiff may recover all of the following:
      • (1) The greater of either of the following:
        • a. Economic and noneconomic damages proximately caused by the defendant’s disclosure or threatened disclosure, including damages for emotional distress whether or not accompanied by other damages.
        • b. Statutory damages not to exceed $10,000 against each defendant found liable under this chapter for all disclosures and threatened disclosures by the defendant of which the plaintiff knew or reasonably should have known when filing the action or which became known during the pendency of the action. In determining the amount of statutory damages under this paragraph (a)(1)b., consideration must be given to the age of the parties at the time of the disclosure or threatened disclosure, the number of disclosures or threatened disclosures made by the defendant, the breadth of distribution of the image by the defendant, and other exacerbating or mitigating factors.
      • (2) An amount equal to any monetary gain made by the defendant from disclosure of the intimate image or deep fake.
      • (3) Punitive damages.
    • In an action under this chapter, the court may award a prevailing plaintiff any of the following:
      • (1) Reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs.
      • (2) Additional relief, including injunctive relief.
    • This chapter does not affect a right or remedy available under law of this State other than this chapter.
    • An action under § 7803(b) of this title for:
      • (1) An unauthorized disclosure may not be brought later than 4 years from the date the disclosure was discovered or should have been discovered with the exercise of reasonable diligence.
      • (2) A threat to disclose may not be brought later than 4 years from the date of the threat to disclose.
    • In an action under § 7803(b) of this title by a depicted individual who was a minor on the date of the disclosure or threat to disclose, the time specified in subsection (a) of this section does not begin to run until the depicted individual attained 18 years of age.

  • CRIMINAL

    Code of the District of Columbia §22–3052. Unlawful disclosure.

    • It shall be unlawful in the District of Columbia for a person to knowingly disclose one or more sexual images of another identified or identifiable person when:
      • (1) The person depicted did not consent to the disclosure of the sexual image;
      • (2) The person disclosing the sexual image knew or consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the person depicted did not consent to the disclosure; and
      • (3) The person disclosed the sexual image with the intent to harm the person depicted or to receive financial gain.
    • A person who violates this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than the amount set forth in § 22-3571.01, imprisoned for not more than 180 days, or both.

    Code of the District of Columbia § 22–3053. First-degree unlawful publication.

    • It shall be unlawful in the District of Columbia for a person to knowingly publish one or more sexual images of another identified or identifiable person, whether obtained directly from the person or from a third party or other source, when:
      • (1) The person depicted did not consent to the publication of the sexual image;
      • (2) The person publishing the sexual image knew or consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the person depicted did not consent to the publication; and
      • (3) The person published the sexual image with the intent to harm the person depicted or to receive financial gain.
    • A person who violates this section shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than the amount set forth in § 22-3571.01, imprisoned for not more than 3 years, or both.

    Code of the District of Columbia § 22–3054. Second degree unlawful publication.

    • It shall be unlawful in the District of Columbia for a person to knowingly publish one or more sexual images of another identified or identifiable person obtained from a third party or other source when:
      • (1) The person depicted did not consent to the publication of the sexual image; and
      • (2) The person publishing the sexual image knew or consciously disregarded a substantial and unjustifiable risk that the sexual image was obtained as a result of a previous disclosure or publication of the sexual image made with intent to harm the person depicted or to receive financial gain.
    • A person who violates this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be fined not more than the amount set forth in § 22-3571.01, imprisoned for not more than 180 days, or both.

    CIVIL

    D.C. Law 25-268. Uniform Civil Remedies for Unauthorized Disclosure of Intimate Images Act of 2024.

    • Except as otherwise provided in section 4, a depicted individual who is identifiable and who suffers harm from a person’s intentional disclosure or threatened disclosure of an intimate image that was private without the depicted individual’s consent has a cause of action against the person if the person knew or acted with reckless disregard for whether:
      • (1) The depicted individual did not consent to the disclosure;
      • (2) The intimate image was private; and
      • (3) The depicted individual was identifiable.
    • The following conduct by a depicted individual does not establish by itself that the individual consented to the disclosure of the intimate image which is the subject of an action under this act or that the individual lacked a reasonable expectation of privacy:
      • (1) Consent to creation of the image; or
      • (2) Previous consensual disclosure of the image.
    • A depicted individual who does not consent to the sexual conduct or uncovering of the part of the body depicted in an intimate image of the individual retains a reasonable expectation of privacy even if the image was created when the individual was in a public place.
    • A person is not liable under this act if the person proves that disclosure of, or a threat to disclose, an intimate image was made reasonably, relevantly, and in good faith:
      • (1) To report unlawful or unsolicited activity or in pursuance of a legal, professional, or other lawful obligation;
      • (2) To assist the depicted person;
      • (3) For legitimate medical, scientific, or educational purposes;
      • (4) As part of a relevant document production or filing associated with a legal proceeding; or
      • (5) In service of the public interest.
    • Disclosure of, or a threat to disclose, an intimate image is not a matter of public concern or public interest solely because the depicted individual is a public figure.
      • (1) The court may exclude or redact from all pleadings and documents filed in the action other identifying characteristics of the plaintiff;
      • (2) A plaintiff to whom paragraph (1) of this section applies shall file with the court and serve on the defendant a confidential information form that includes the excluded or redacted plaintiff’s name and other identifying characteristics; and
      • (3) The court may make further orders as necessary to protect the identity and privacy of a plaintiff.
    • (a) In an action under this act, a prevailing plaintiff may recover:
      • (1) The greater of:
        • (A) Economic and noneconomic damages proximately caused by the defendant’s disclosure or threatened disclosure, including damages for emotional distress whether or not accompanied by other damages; or
        • (B) Statutory damages not to exceed $10,000 against each defendant found liable under this act for all disclosures and threatened disclosures by the defendant of which the plaintiff knew or reasonably should have known when filing the action or which became known during the pendency of the action. In determining the amount of statutory damages under this subparagraph, consideration must be given to the age of the parties at the time of the disclosure or threatened disclosure, the number of disclosures or threatened disclosures made by the defendant, the breadth of distribution of the image by the defendant, and other exacerbating or mitigating factors;
      • (2) An amount equal to any monetary gain made by the defendant from disclosure of the intimate image; and
      • (3) Punitive damages.
    • In an action under this act, the court may award a prevailing plaintiff:
      • (1) Reasonable attorney’s fees and costs; and
      • (2) Additional relief, including injunctive relief.
      • this act does not affect a right or remedy available under law of the District other than this act.
    • (a) An action under section 3(b) for:
      • (1) An unauthorized disclosure may not be brought later than 4 years from the date the disclosure was discovered or should have been discovered with the exercise of reasonable diligence; and
      • (2) A threat to disclose may not be brought later than 4 years from the date of the threat to disclose.
    • (b) In an action under section 3(b) by a depicted individual who was a minor on the date of the disclosure or threat to disclose, the time specified in subsection (a) of this section does not begin to run until the depicted individual attains the age of majority.

  • CRIMINAL

    Florida Statutes 784.049: Sexual cyberharassment.

    • “Sexually cyberharass” means to publish to an Internet website or disseminate through electronic means to another person a sexually explicit image of a person that contains or conveys the personal identification information of the depicted person without the depicted person’s consent, contrary to the depicted person’s reasonable expectation that the image would remain private, for no legitimate purpose, with the intent of causing substantial emotional distress to the depicted person. Evidence that the depicted person sent a sexually explicit image to another person does not, on its own, remove his or her reasonable expectation of privacy for that image.
    • Except as provided in paragraph (b), a person who willfully and maliciously sexually cyberharasses another person commits a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083.
    • A person who has one prior conviction for sexual cyberharassment and who commits a second or subsequent sexual cyberharassment commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

    CIVIL

    Florida Statutes 784.049: Sexual cyberharassment.

    • An aggrieved person may initiate a civil action against a person who violates this section to obtain all appropriate relief in order to prevent or remedy a violation of this section, including the following:
      • (a) Injunctive relief.
      • (b) Monetary damages to include $10,000 or actual damages incurred as a result of a violation of this section, whichever is greater.
      • (c) Reasonable attorney fees and costs.
    • The criminal and civil penalties of this section do not apply to:
      • A provider of an interactive computer service as defined in 47 U.S.C. s. 230(f), information service as defined in 47 U.S.C. s. 153, or communications service as defined in s. 202.11, that provides the transmission, storage, or caching of electronic communications or messages of others; other related telecommunications or commercial mobile radio service; or content provided by another person; or
      • A law enforcement officer, as defined in s. 943.10, or any local, state, federal, or military law enforcement agency, that publishes a sexually explicit image in connection with the performance of his or her duties as a law enforcement officer, or law enforcement agency.
    • A violation of this section is committed within this state if any conduct that is an element of the offense, or any harm to the depicted person resulting from the offense, occurs within this state.

  • CRIMINAL

    GA Code § 16-11-90 (2024) : Prohibition on nude or sexually explicit electronic transmissions

    A person violates this Code section if he or she, knowing the content of a transmission or post, knowingly and without the consent of the depicted person:

    • Electronically transmits or posts, in one or more transmissions or posts, a photograph or video which depicts nudity or sexually explicit conduct of an adult, including a falsely created videographic or still image, when the transmission or post is harassment or causes financial loss to the depicted person, serves no legitimate purpose to the depicted person, and is transmitted or posted:
      • (A) To a website, peer-to-peer file-sharing site, thumbnail gallery, movie gallery post, linked list, live webcam, web page, or message board that advertises or promotes its service as showing, previewing, or distributing sexually explicit conduct; or
      • (B) Via any other electronic means that does not fall within subparagraph (A) of this paragraph; or
    • Causes the electronic transmission or posting, in one or more transmissions or posts, of a photograph or video which depicts nudity or sexually explicit conduct of an adult, including a falsely created videographic or still image, when the transmission or post is harassment or causes financial loss to the depicted person, serves no legitimate purpose to the depicted person, and is transmitted or posted:
      • (A) To a website, peer-to-peer file-sharing site, thumbnail gallery, movie gallery post, linked list, live webcam, web page, or message board that advertises or promotes its service as showing, previewing, or distributing sexually explicit conduct; or
      • (B) Via any other electronic means that does not fall within subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

    Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to impose liability on an interactive computer service, as such term is defined in 47 U.S.C. Section 230(f)(2), or an information service or telecommunications service, as such terms are defined in 47 U.S.C. Section 153, for content provided by another person.

  • CRIMINAL

    §711-1110.9 Violation of privacy in the first degree.

    • (1) A person commits the offense of violation of privacy in the first degree if, except in the execution of a public duty or as authorized by law:
      • (a) The person intentionally or knowingly installs or uses, or both, in any private place, without consent of the person or persons entitled to privacy therein, any device for observing, recording, amplifying, or broadcasting another person in a stage of undress or sexual activity in that place;
      • (b) The person knowingly discloses or threatens to disclose an image or video of another identifiable person either in the nude, as defined in section 712-1210, or engaging in sexual conduct, as defined in section 712-1210, without the consent of the depicted person, with intent to harm substantially the depicted person with respect to that person’s health, safety, business, calling, career, education, financial condition, reputation, or personal relationships or as an act of revenge or retribution; or
      • (c) The person intentionally creates or discloses or threatens to disclose an image or video of a composite fictitious person depicted in the nude as defined in section 712-1210, or engaged in sexual conduct as defined in section 712-1210, that includes the recognizable physical characteristics of a known person so that the image or video appears to depict the known person and not a composite fictitious person, with intent to substantially harm the depicted person with respect to that person’s health, safety, business, calling, career, education, financial condition, reputation, or personal relationships, or as an act of revenge or retribution.
    • Violation of privacy in the first degree is a class C felony. In addition to any penalties the court may impose, the court may order the destruction of any recording made in violation of this section.

  • CRIMINAL

    Idaho Code 18-6606.  DISCLOSING EXPLICIT SYNTHETIC MEDIA.

    • (1) A person is guilty of disclosing explicit synthetic media when the person knowingly:
      • (a)  Discloses explicit synthetic media and knows or reasonably should know that:
        • (i)   An identifiable person portrayed in whole or in part in the explicit synthetic media did not consent to such disclosure; and
        • (ii)  Disclosure of the explicit synthetic media would cause the identifiable person substantial emotional distress;
      • (b)  Discloses explicit synthetic media with the intent to annoy, terrify, threaten, intimidate, harass, offend, humiliate, or degrade an identifiable person portrayed in whole or in part in the explicit synthetic media; or
      • (c)  Possesses and threatens to disclose explicit synthetic media with the intent to obtain money or other valuable consideration from an identifiable person portrayed in whole or in part in the explicit synthetic media.
    • First offense is a misdemeanor. Repeat offense within 5 years (even if from another state or jurisdiction) is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine up to $25k or both.

  • CRIMINAL

    (720 ILCS 5/11-23.5) Sec. 11-23.5. Non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images.

    • (b) A person commits non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images when he or she:
      • (1) intentionally disseminates an image of another person:
        • (A) (blank); and
        • (B) who is identifiable from the image itself, or whose personal identifying information is displayed or disseminated in connection with the image, or whose identity is known to the person who disseminated the image; and
        • (C) who is engaged in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed, in whole or in part; and
      • (2) obtains the image under circumstances in which a  reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private; and
      • (3) knows or should have known that the person in the  image has not consented to the dissemination.
    • Non-consensual dissemination of private sexual images is a Class 4 felony.

    CIVIL

    CIVIL LIABILITIES (740 ILCS 190/) Civil Remedies for Nonconsensual Dissemination of Private Sexual Images Act.

    (740 ILCS 190/10)

    Sec. 10. Civil action.

    • (a) Except as otherwise provided in Section 15, if a depicted individual is identifiable to a reasonable person and suffers harm from the intentional dissemination or threatened dissemination by a person over the age of 18 of a private or intentionally digitally altered sexual image without the depicted individual’s consent, the depicted individual has a cause of action against the person if the person knew or recklessly disregarded the possibility that:
      • (1) the depicted individual did not consent to the dissemination;
      • (2) the image was a private or intentionally digitally altered sexual image; and
      • (3) the depicted individual was identifiable.
    • (b) The following conduct by a depicted individual does not establish by itself that the individual consented to the nonconsensual dissemination of a private sexual image that is the subject of an action under this Act or that the individual lacked a reasonable expectation of privacy:
      • (1) consent to creation of the image; or
      • (2) previous consensual disclosure of the image.
    • (c) In the case of digitally altered sexual images, disclosing that the images were digitally altered shall not be a defense to liability.

    Liability

    • (a) A person is not liable under this Act if the person proves that the dissemination of or a threat to disseminate a private sexual image or digitally altered sexual image was:
      • (1) made in good faith:
        • (A) by law enforcement;
        • (B) in a legal proceeding; or
        • (C) for medical education or treatment;
      • (2) made in good faith in the reporting or investigation of:
        • (A) unlawful conduct; or
        • (B) unsolicited and unwelcome conduct; or
      • (3) related to a matter of public concern.
    • (b) Subject to subsection (c), a defendant who is a parent, legal guardian, or individual with legal custody of a child is not liable under this Act for a dissemination or threatened dissemination of an intimate private sexual image of the child.
    • (c) If a defendant asserts an exception to liability under subsection (b), the exception does not apply if the plaintiff proves the disclosure was:
      • (1) prohibited by a law other than this Act; or
      • (2) made for the purpose of sexual arousal, sexual gratification, humiliation, degradation, or monetary or commercial gain.
    • (d) The dissemination of or a threat to disseminate a private sexual image is not a matter of public concern solely because the depicted individual is a public figure or the image is accompanied by a political message.

    Privacy of parties

    • (a) In an action under this Act:
      • (1) a plaintiff may proceed by using a pseudonym in place of the true name of the plaintiff under Section 2-401 of the Code of Civil Procedure; and
      • (2) the court may exclude or redact from all pleadings and documents filed in the action other identifying characteristics of the plaintiff.
    • (b) A plaintiff to whom paragraph (2) of subsection (a) applies shall file with the court and serve on the defendant a confidential information form that includes the excluded or redacted plaintiff’s name and other identifying characteristics.
    • (c) The court may make further orders as necessary to protect the identity and privacy of a plaintiff.
    • (d) If a plaintiff is granted privacy protections under this Section, a defendant may file a motion with the court to receive the same privacy protections. The court may deny or grant the motion at its discretion.

    Remedies

    • (a) In an action under this Act, a prevailing plaintiff may recover:
      • (1) the greater of:
        • (A) economic and noneconomic damages proximately caused by the defendant’s dissemination or threatened dissemination, including damages for emotional distress whether or not accompanied by other damages; or
        • (B) statutory damages, not to exceed $10,000,against each defendant found liable under this Act for all disseminations and threatened disseminations by the defendant of which the plaintiff knew or reasonably should have known when filing the action or that became known during the pendency of the action. In determining the amount of statutory damages under this subsection, consideration shall be given to the age of the parties at the time of the disseminations or threatened disseminations, the number of disseminations or threatened disseminations made by the defendant, the breadth of distribution of the image by the defendant, and other exacerbating or mitigating factors;
      • (2) an amount equal to any monetary gain made by the defendant from dissemination of the private sexual image; and
      • (3) punitive damages.
    • (b) In an action under this Act, the court may award a prevailing plaintiff:
      • (1) reasonable attorney’s fees and costs; and
      • (2) additional relief, including equitable relief such as a temporary restraining order, preliminary injunction, or permanent injunction ordering the defendant to cease the display or disclosure of the image.
    • (c) This Act does not affect a right or remedy available under any other law of this State.

    Statute of limitations

    • (a) An action under subsection (b) of Section 10 for:
      • (1) a nonconsensual dissemination may not be brought later than 2 years from the date the dissemination was discovered or should have been discovered with the exercise of reasonable diligence; and
      • (2) a threat to disseminate may not be brought later than 2 years from the date of the threat to disseminate.
    • (b) Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c), this Section is subject to the tolling statutes of this State.
    • (c) In an action under subsection (a) of Section 10 by a depicted individual who was a minor on the date of the dissemination or threat to disseminate, the time specified in subsection (a) of this Section does not begin to run until the depicted individual attains the age of majority.

    Severability.

    • If any provision of this Act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of this Act that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end, the provisions of this Act are severable.

  • CRIMINAL

    Indiana Code § 35‑45‑4‑8: Distribution of an Intimate Image

    • A person who:
      • (1) knows or reasonably should know that an individual depicted in an intimate image does not consent to the distribution of the intimate image; and
      • (2) distributes the intimate image;
    • commits distribution of an intimate image, a Class A misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Level 6 felony if the person has a prior unrelated conviction under this section.
    • (e) It is not a necessary element of the offense described in subsection (d) that the individual depicted in the intimate image actually sent the image.

    CIVIL

    IN Code § 34-21.5-3-1 (2024)

    • A depicted individual who is identifiable and suffered harm may bring an action for disclosing nonconsensual pornography against a person who:
      • (1) creates or obtains an intimate image of the depicted individual:
        • (A) under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the intimate image of the depicted individual was to remain private, including but not limited to an intimate image shared within the context of a sexual relationship that was then disclosed beyond that relationship;
        • (B) under false pretenses; or
        • (C) without authorization or by exceeding authorized access to property, accounts, messages, files, devices, or resources;
      • (2) discloses the intimate image depicting the individual to a third party, with the intent to:
        • (A) harass;
        • (B) intimidate;
        • (C) threaten;
        • (D) coerce;
        • (E) embarrass;
        • (F) gain profit at the expense of; or
        • (G) cause physical or financial injury or serious emotional distress to; the depicted person; and
      • (3) knows or acts with reckless disregard for whether the depicted individual:
        • (A) was identifiable in the intimate image; and
        • (B) did not consent to the disclosure of the intimate image to a third party.
    • (b) The following conduct by a depicted individual does not establish by itself that the individual consented to the disclosure of the intimate image which is the subject of an action under this section or that the individual lacked a reasonable expectation of privacy:
      • (1) The individual’s consent to the creation of the image.
      • (2) The individual’s previous consensual disclosure of the image.
    • (c) A depicted individual who does not consent to the sexual conduct or uncovering of the part of the body depicted in an intimate image of the individual retains a reasonable expectation of privacy even if the image was created when the individual was in a public place.

  • CRIMINAL

    Iowa Code 708.7

    • 1. a. A person commits harassment when, with intent to intimidate, annoy, or alarm another person, the person does any of the following:
      • (5) Disseminates, publishes, distributes, posts, or causes to be disseminated, published, distributed, or posted a visual depiction as defined in section 728.1 showing another person in a state of full or partial nudity or engaged in a sex act, to which the other person has not consented to the dissemination, publication, distribution, or posting. Notwithstanding subsection 5, a person eighteen years of age or older who commits a violation of this subparagraph shall be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the provisions of chapter 692A. For purposes of this section, “another person” includes an individual, recognizable by the person’s face, likeness, or other distinguishing features, whose image is used to create, adapt, or modify a visual depiction to depict that other person in a manner as described in this subparagraph.
    • Senate File 2243, an Act relating to sexual exploitation of a minor by the creation, adaptation, or modification of a visual depiction to give the appearance that an identifiable minor is engaged in a prohibited sexual act or the simulation of a prohibited sexual act, and making penalties applicable.
    • Class D felony for a first offense and a Class C felony for subsequent offenses.

  • CRIMINAL

    Kansas Statutes Annotated 21-6101(8): Breach of privacy

    • Breach of privacy is knowingly and without lawful authority… disseminating any videotape, photograph, film or image of another identifiable person 18 years of age or older who is nude or engaged in sexual activity and under circumstances in which such identifiable person had a reasonable expectation of privacy, with the intent to harass, threaten or intimidate such identifiable person, and such identifiable person did not consent to such dissemination.
    • Severity level 8, person felony.

  • CRIMINAL

    Kentucky Revised Statute Section 531.120 Distribution of sexually explicit images without consent.

    • A person is guilty of distribution of sexually explicit images without consent when:
      • (a) He or she intentionally distributes to any third party private erotic matter without the written consent of the person depicted, and does so with the intent to profit, or to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the person depicted; and
      • (b) The disclosure would cause a reasonable person to suffer harm.
    • (2) This section shall not apply to:
      • (a) Images involving voluntary nudity or sexual conduct in public, commercial settings, or in a place where a person does not have a reasonable expectation of privacy;
      • (b) Disclosures made in the public interest, including the reporting of unlawful conduct, or lawful and common practices of law enforcement, criminal reporting, corrections, legal proceedings, or medical treatment;
      • (c) Disclosures of materials that constitute a matter of public concern; or
      • (d) Internet service providers or telecommunications services, or interactive computer services, as defined in 47 U.S.C. sec. 230(f)(2), for content solely provided by another person.
    • (3) A person who maintains an Internet Web site, online service, online application, or mobile application that distributes private erotic matter shall remove any such image if requested by a person depicted, and shall not solicit or accept a fee or other consideration to remove the visual image.
    • (4) Distribution of sexually explicit images without consent is a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a Class D felony for each subsequent offense, unless the person distributes the private erotic matter for profit or gain, in which case it is a Class D felony for the first offense and a Class C felony for each subsequent offense.
    • (5) In this section, “consent” means the consent to transmission of images to a specific recipient or recipients. Consent to the creation of the visual image does not, by itself, constitute consent to the distribution of the visual image.
    • (6) Notwithstanding KRS 17.500 to 17.580, a conviction under this section shall not result in the offender being deemed a registrant or being required to register as a sex offender

  • CRIMINAL

    §283.2. Nonconsensual disclosure of a private image

    • A. A person commits the offense of nonconsensual disclosure of a private image when all of the following occur:
      • (1) The person intentionally discloses an image of another person who is identifiable from the image or information displayed in connection with the image and either whose intimate parts are exposed in whole or in part or who is engaged in sexual conduct.
      • (2) The person who discloses the image obtained it through unauthorized access or under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private.
      • (3) The person who discloses the image knew or should have known that the person in the image did not consent to the disclosure of the image.
      • (4) The person who discloses the image knew or should have known that the disclosure could harass or cause emotional distress to the person in the image.
    • Whoever commits the offense of nonconsensual disclosure of a private image shall be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than two years, or both.

    §73.14. Unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another created by artificial intelligence

    • A. It shall be unlawful for any person, with the intent to coerce, harass, intimidate, or maliciously disseminate or sell any video or still image created by artificial intelligence that depicts another person who is totally nude or in a state of undress so as to expose the genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or female breast, when the person disseminating the video or still image knows or has reason to know that the person is not licensed or authorized to disseminate or sell such video or still image.
    • B. The provisions of this Section shall not apply to an interactive computer service, electronic mail service provider, or a provider of a telecommunications service or any information service as defined in 47 U.S.C. 153, system, or access software provider that provides or enables computer access by multiple users to a computer server that was used by a person to commit any act prohibited by Subsection A of this Section.
    • Whoever violates the provisions of this Section shall be imprisoned for not more than six months, fined not more than seven hundred fifty dollars, or both.

  • CRIMINAL

    Maine Crim. Code 17-A, section 511-A

    • A person is guilty of unauthorized dissemination of certain private images if the person, with the intent to harass, torment or threaten the depicted person or another person, intentionally or knowingly disseminates, displays or publishes an image of another person in a state of nudity or engaged in a sexual act or engaged in sexual contact or creates or modifies an image to represent the depicted person in a state of nudity or engaged in a sexual act or engaged in sexual contact in a manner in which there is no public or newsworthy purpose when the person knows or should have known that the depicted person:
      • B. Is identifiable from the image itself or information displayed in connection with the 42 image; and 43
      • C. Has not consented to the dissemination, display or publication of the private image.
    • Unauthorized dissemination of certain private images is a Class D crime.

  • CRIMINAL

    Maryland Senate Bill 360

    • A person may not knowingly distribute a visual representation of another identifiable person that displays the other person with intimate parts exposed or while engaged in an act of sexual activity: 
      • (1)  with the intent to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the other person;
      • (2)  (i) under circumstances in which the person knew that the other person did not consent to the distribution; or (ii) with reckless disregard as to whether the person consented to the distribution; and
      • (3)  under circumstances in which the other person had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private.
    • (d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.
    • (e) A person who violates this section is subject to § 5–106(b) of the Courts Article.
    • (f) (1) A PERSON WHOSE VISUAL REPRESENTATION WAS DISTRIBUTED IN VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION HAS A CIVIL CAUSE OF ACTION FOR DEFAMATION PER SE OR INVASION OF PRIVACY AGAINST ANY PERSON WHO DISTRIBUTED THE VISUAL REPRESENTATION.
      • (2) IN ADDITION TO OTHER RELIEF, THE COURT MAY AWARD REASONABLE ATTORNEY’S FEES TO A PREVAILING PLAINTIFF UNDER THIS SUBSECTION. 

  • CRIMINAL

    Massachusetts General Law: Chapter 272 Section 105 (As of June 2025)

    • (c) Whoever willfully disseminates the visual image of another person, with knowledge that such visual image was unlawfully obtained in violation of the first and second paragraphs of subsection (b) and without consent of the person so depicted, shall be punished by imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 21/2 years or in the state prison for not more than 5 years or by a fine of not more than $10,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
    • Whoever willfully disseminates the visual image of the sexual or other intimate parts of a child under the age of 18, with knowledge that such visual image was unlawfully obtained in violation of the third paragraph of subsection (b) shall be punished by imprisonment in the house of correction for not more than 21/2 years or in the state prison for not more than 10 years or by a fine of not more than $10,000, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

  • CRIMINAL

    Michigan Criminal Law 750.145e: Dissemination of sexually explicit visual material of another person

    • A person shall not intentionally and with the intent to threaten, coerce, or intimidate disseminate any sexually explicit visual material of another person if all of the following conditions apply:
      • (a) The other person is not less than 18 years of age.
      • (b) The other person is identifiable from the sexually explicit visual material itself or information displayed in connection with the sexually explicit visual material. This subdivision does not apply if the identifying information is supplied by a person other than the disseminator.
      • (c) The person obtains the sexually explicit visual material of the other person under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the sexually explicit visual material was to remain private.
      • (d) The person knows or reasonably should know that the other person did not consent to the dissemination of the sexually explicit visual material

    Michigan Criminal Law 750.145f: Violation of MCL 750.145e; penalty.

    • A person who violates section 145e is guilty of a crime punishable as follows:
      • (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), the person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 93 days or a fine of not more than $500.00, or both.
      • (b) For a second or subsequent violation of section 145e, the person is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 1 year or a fine of not more than $1,000.00, or both.

  • CRIMINAL

    617.261 NONCONSENSUAL DISSEMINATION OF PRIVATE SEXUAL IMAGES.

    It is a crime to intentionally disseminate an image of another person who is depicted in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed, in whole or in part, when:

    • (1) the person is identifiable:
      • (i) from the image itself, by the person depicted in the image or by another person; or
      • (ii) from personal information displayed in connection with the image;
    • (2) the actor knows or reasonably should know that the person depicted in the image does not consent to the dissemination; and
    • (3) the image was obtained or created under circumstances in which the actor knew or reasonably should have known the person depicted had a reasonable expectation of privacy.

    617.262 NONCONSENSUAL DISSEMINATION OF A DEEP FAKE DEPICTING INTIMATE PARTS OR SEXUAL ACTS.

    It is a crime to intentionally disseminate a deep fake when:

    • (1) the actor knows or reasonably should know that the depicted individual did not consent to the dissemination;
    • (2) the deep fake realistically depicts any of the following:
      • (i) the intimate parts of another individual presented as the intimate parts of the depicted individual;
      • (ii) artificially generated intimate parts presented as the intimate parts of the depicted individual; or
      • (iii) the depicted individual engaging in a sexual act; and
    • (3) the depicted individual is identifiable:
      • (i) from the deep fake itself, by the depicted individual or by another individual; or
      • (ii) from the personal information displayed in connection with the deep fake.
        • (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), whoever violates subdivision 2 is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.
        • (b) Whoever violates subdivision 2 may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than three years or to payment of a fine of $5,000, or both, if one of the following factors is present:
    • (1) the depicted individual suffers financial loss due to the dissemination of the deep fake;
    • (2) the actor disseminates the deep fake with intent to profit from the dissemination;
    • (3) the actor maintains an Internet website, online service, online application, or mobile application for the purpose of disseminating the deep fake;
    • (4) the actor posts the deep fake on a website;
    • (5) the actor disseminates the deep fake with intent to harass the depicted individual;
    • (6) the actor obtained the deep fake by committing a violation of section 609.52, 609.746, 609.89, or 609.891; or
    • (7) the actor has previously been convicted under this chapter.

    CIVIL

    604.31 CAUSE OF ACTION FOR NONCONSENSUAL DISSEMINATION OF PRIVATE SEXUAL IMAGES; SEXUAL SOLICITATION. 

    Nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images.  

    • (a) A cause of action against a person for the nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images exists when: 
      • (1) a person disseminated an image without the consent of the person depicted in the image; 
      • (2) the image is of an individual depicted in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed in whole or in part; 
      • (3) the person is identifiable: 
        • (i) from the image itself, by the person depicted in the image or by another person; or 
        • (ii) from the personal information displayed in connection with the image; and 
      • (4) the image was obtained or created under circumstances in which the person depicted had a reasonable expectation of privacy. 
    • (b) The fact that the individual depicted in the image consented to the creation of the image or to the voluntary private transmission of the image is not a defense to liability for a person who has disseminated the image without consent. 

  • CRIMINAL

    MS Code §97-29-64.1 (2024) 

    • (1) A person commits an offense if: 
      • (a) Without the effective consent of the depicted person and with the intent to harm the depicted person, the offender discloses visual material depicting another person with the depicted person’s intimate parts exposed or engaged in sexual conduct; 
      • (b) At the time of the disclosure, the offender knows or has reason to believe that the visual material was obtained by the offender or created under circumstances in which the depicted person had a reasonable expectation that the visual material would remain private; 
      • (c) The disclosure of the visual material causes harm to the depicted person; and 
      • (d) The disclosure of the visual material reveals the identity of the depicted person in any manner, including through: 
        • (i) Any accompanying or subsequent information or material related to the visual material; or 
        • (ii) Information or material provided by a third party in response to the disclosure of the visual material. 
    • (2) A person commits an offense if the offender intentionally threatens to disclose, without the consent of the depicted person, visual material depicting another person with the depicted person’s intimate parts exposed or engaged in sexual conduct and the offender makes the threat to obtain a benefit: 
      • (a) In return for not making the disclosure; or 
      • (b) In connection with the threatened disclosure. 
    • (3) A person commits an offense if, knowing the character and content of the visual material, the offender promotes visual material described by subsection (1) of this section on an internet website or other forum for publication that is owned or operated by the offender. 
    • (4) It is not a defense to prosecution under this section that the depicted person: 
      • (a) Created or consented to the creation of the visual material; or 
      • (b) Voluntarily transmitted the visual material to the actor. 
    • (5) It is an affirmative defense to prosecution under subsection (1) or (3) of this section that: 
      • (a) The disclosure or promotion is made in the course of: 
        • (i) Lawful and common practices of law enforcement or medical treatment; 
        • (ii) Reporting unlawful activity; or 
        • (iii) A legal proceeding, if the disclosure or promotion is permitted or required by law; or 
      • (b) The disclosure or promotion consists of visual material depicting in a public or commercial setting only a person’s voluntary exposure of: 
        • (i) The person’s intimate parts; or 
        • (ii) The person engaging in sexual conduct. 
    • (6) Where content is provided by another person or entity, nothing in this section shall be construed to impose criminal liability on the following: 
      • (a) An internet service provider; 
      • (b) an interactive computer service, as defined in 47 USC Section 230; 
      • (c) A provider of an electronic communications service, as defined in 18 USC Section 2510; 
      • (d) A telecommunications service, information service or mobile service, as defined in 47 USC Section 153, including a commercial mobile service, as defined in 47 USC Section 332(d); or 
      • (e) A cable operator, as defined in 47 USC Section 522. 
    • (7) 
      • (a) A first offense under this section is a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, shall be punished by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding six (6) months or by a fine not exceeding One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), or both. 
      • (b) A second or subsequent violation of this section is a felony and, upon conviction, shall be punished by imprisonment not exceeding one (1) year or by a fine not exceeding Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00), or both. 
      • (c) Notwithstanding paragraphs (a) and (b) of this subsection, any offense under this section committed for financial profit shall constitute a felony and, upon conviction, shall be punished by imprisonment not exceeding one (1) year or by fine not exceeding Two Thousand Dollars ($2,000.00), or both. 
    • (8) A person shall be subject to prosecution in this state for any conduct made unlawful by this section which the person engages in while: 
      • (a) Either within or outside of this state if, by such conduct, the person commits a violation of this section which involves an individual who resides in this state; or 
      • (b) Within this state if, by such conduct, the person commits a violation of this section which involves an individual who resides within or outside this state. 
    • (9) The provisions of this section are supplementary to the provisions of any other statute of this state. If conduct that constitutes an offense under this section also constitutes an offense under another law, the actor may be prosecuted under this section, the other law, or both. 

  • CRIMINAL and CIVIL

    573.110.  Nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images 

    • A person commits the offense of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images if he or she:
      • (1)  Intentionally disseminates an image with the intent to harass, threaten, or coerce another person:
        • (a)  Who is at least eighteen years of age;
        • (b)  Who is identifiable from the image itself or information displayed in connection with the image; and
        • (c)  Who is engaged in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed, in whole or in part;
      • (2)  Obtains the image under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private; and
      • (3)  Knows or should have known that the person in the image did not consent to the dissemination.
    • 4.  Nothing in this section shall be construed to impose liability upon the following entities solely as a result of content or information provided by another person:
      • (1)  An interactive computer service, as defined in 47 U.S.C. Section 230(f)(2);
      • (2)  A provider of public mobile services or private mobile radio services; or
      • (3)  A telecommunications network or broadband provider.
    • 5.  A person convicted under this section is subject to the forfeiture provisions under sections 513.600 to 513.660.
    • 6.  The offense of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images is a class D felony.
    • 7.  In addition to the criminal penalties listed in subsection 6 of this section, the person in violation of the provisions of this section shall also be subject to a private cause of action from the depicted person.  Any successful private cause of action brought under this subsection shall result in an award equal to ten thousand dollars or actual damages, whichever is greater, and in addition shall include attorney’s fees.  Humiliation or embarrassment shall be an adequate showing that the plaintiff has incurred damages; however, no physical manifestation of either humiliation or embarrassment is necessary for damages to be shown.

  • CRIMINAL

    Montana Code Annotated 45-8-213: Privacy in Communications (criminal)

    Except as provided in 69-6-104, a person commits the offense of violating privacy in communications if the person knowingly or purposely:

    • (d) with the purpose to terrify, intimidate, threaten, harass, or injure, publishes or distributes printed or electronic photographs, pictures, images, or films of an identifiable person without the consent of the person depicted that show:
      • (i) the visible genitals, anus, buttocks, or female breast if the nipple is exposed; or
      • (ii) the person depicted engaged in a real or simulated sexual act.
    • Subsection (1)(d) does not apply to:
      • (i) images involving the voluntary exposure of a person’s genitals or intimate parts in public or commercial settings; or
      • (ii) (A) disclosures made in the public interest, including but not limited to the reporting of unlawful conduct; (B) disclosures made in the course of performing duties related to law enforcement, including reporting to authorities, criminal or news reporting, legal proceedings, or medical treatment; or (C) disclosures concerning historic, artistic, scientific, or educational materials.
    • A person convicted of the offense of violating privacy in communications shall be fined an amount not to exceed $500 or be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 6 months, or both.
    • On a second conviction, a person shall be imprisoned in the county jail for a term not to exceed 1 year or be fined an amount not to exceed $1,000, or both.
    • On a third or subsequent conviction, a person shall be imprisoned in the state prison for a term not to exceed 5 years or be fined an amount not to exceed $10,000, or both.
    • Nothing in this section may be construed to impose liability on an interactive computer service for content provided by another person.

  • CRIMINAL

    Nebraska Revised Statute 28-311.08

    • (3) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly and intentionally distribute or otherwise make public an image or video of another person recorded in violation of subsection (2) of this section without that person’s consent. A first or second violation of this subsection is a Class IIA felony. A third or subsequent violation of this subsection is a Class II felony. 
    • (4) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly and intentionally distribute or otherwise make public an image or video of another person’s intimate area or of another person engaged in sexually explicit conduct (a) if the other person had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private, (b) knowing the other person did not consent to distributing or making public the image or video, and (c) if distributing or making public the image or video serves no legitimate purpose. Violation of this subsection is a Class I misdemeanor. A second or subsequent violation of this subsection is a Class IV felony. 
    • (5) It shall be unlawful for any person to threaten to distribute or otherwise make public an image or video of another person’s intimate area or of another person engaged in sexually explicit conduct with the intent to intimidate, threaten, or harass any person. Violation of this subsection is a Class I misdemeanor. 
    • (6) As part of sentencing following a conviction for a violation of subsection (1), (2), or (3) of this section, the court shall make a finding as to the ages of the defendant and the victim at the time the offense occurred. If the defendant is found to have been nineteen years of age or older and the victim is found to have been less than eighteen years of age at such time, then the defendant shall be required to register under the Sex Offender Registration Act. 

    CIVIL

    Nebraska Revised Statute 25-3503 

    • (b) Except as otherwise provided in section 25-3504, a depicted individual who is identifiable and who suffers harm from a person’s intentional disclosure or threatened disclosure of an intimate image that was private without the depicted individual’s consent has a cause of action against the person if the person knew or acted with reckless disregard for whether: 
      • (1) the depicted individual did not consent to the disclosure; 
      • (2) the intimate image was private; and 
      • (3) the depicted individual was identifiable. 
    • (c) The following conduct by a depicted individual does not establish by itself that the individual consented to the disclosure of the intimate image which is the subject of an action under the Uniform Civil Remedies for Unauthorized Disclosure of Intimate Images Act or that the individual lacked a reasonable expectation of privacy: 
      • (1) consent to creation of the image; or 
      • (2) previous consensual disclosure of the image. 
    • (d) A depicted individual who does not consent to the sexual conduct or uncovering of the part of the body depicted in an intimate image of the individual retains a reasonable expectation of privacy even if the image was created when the individual was in a public place. 

  • CRIMINAL

    Nevada Revised Statutes 200.780: Unlawful dissemination of intimate image

    • Except as otherwise provided in subsection 3, a person commits the crime of unlawful dissemination of an intimate image when, with the intent to harass, harm or terrorize another person, the person electronically disseminates or sells an intimate image which depicts the other person and the other person:
      • (a) Did not give prior consent to the electronic dissemination or the sale of the intimate image;
      • (b) Had a reasonable expectation that the intimate image would be kept private and would not be made visible to the public; and
      • (c) Was at least 18 years of age when the intimate image was created.
    • A person who commits the crime of unlawful dissemination of an intimate image is guilty of a category D felony.

  • 644:9-a Nonconsensual Dissemination of Private Sexual Images.

    A person commits nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images when he or she:

    • (a) Purposely, and with the intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the depicted person, disseminates an image of such person: 
      • (1) Who is identifiable from the image itself or information displayed in connection with the image; and 
      • (2) Who is engaged in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed, in whole or in part; and 
    • (b) Obtains the image under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the person in the image intended that the image was to remain private; and 
    • (c) Knows or should have known that the person in the image has not consented to the dissemination. 

    [Paragraph II-a effective January 1, 2025.] 

    II-a. A person also commits nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images when he or she purposely, and with the intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the depicted person, disseminates a synthetic image of such person that makes use of and intentionally manipulates or alters a recognizable individual’s image or conduct to create a realistic but false image, recording, or digital visualization of the individual’s intimate parts, sexual acts, or sexual activity without the consent of the individual. 

    • Nothing in this section shall be construed to impose liability upon the following entities solely as a result of content or information provided by another person:
      • (a) An interactive computer service, as defined in 47 U.S.C. section 230(f)(2); 
      • (b) A provider of public cellular or mobile services or private radio services; or 
      • (c) A telecommunications network or broadband provider. 
    • Any property used in committing, or facilitating the commission of, any offense under this section shall be subject to forfeiture.
    • Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a class B felony.

  • N.J.S.A. 2C:14-9

    2C:14-9. Invasion of privacy; observation of sexual contact; reproduction or disclosure of images of sexual contact or undergarment-clad intimate parts of another person; dressing rooms; defenses

    Effective: May 5, 2016

    a. An actor commits a crime of the fourth degree if, knowing that he is not licensed or privileged to do so, and under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know that another may expose intimate parts or may engage in sexual penetration or sexual contact, he observes another person without that person’s consent and under circumstances in which a reasonable person would not expect to be observed.

    b, (1) An actor commits a crime of the third degree if, knowing that he is not licensed or privileged to do so, he photographs, films, videotapes, records, or otherwise reproduces in any manner, the image of another person whose intimate parts are exposed or who is engaged in an act of sexual penetration or sexual contact, without that person’s consent and under circumstances in which a reasonable person would not expect to be observed.

    (2) An actor commits a crime of the fourth degree if, knowing that he is not licensed or privileged to do so, he photographs, films, videotapes, records, or otherwise reproduces in any manner, the image of the undergarment-clad intimate parts of another person, without that person’s consent and under circumstances in which a reasonable person would not expect to have his undergarment-clad intimate parts observed.

    c. An actor commits a crime of the third degree if, knowing that he is not licensed or privileged to do so, he discloses any photograph, film, videotape, recording or any other reproduction of the image, taken in violation of subsection b. of this section, of: (1) another person who is engaged in an act of sexual penetration or sexual contact; (2) another person whose intimate parts are exposed; or (3) another person’s undergarment-clad intimate parts, unless that person has consented to such disclosure.

    For purposes of this subsection: (1) “disclose” means sell, manufacture, give, provide, lend, trade, mail, deliver, transfer, publish, distribute, circulate, disseminate, present, exhibit, advertise , offer, share, or make available via the Internet or by any other means, whether for pecuniary gain or not; and (2) “intimate parts” has the meaning ascribed to it in N.J.S.2C:14-1. Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection b. of N.J.S.2C:43-3, a fine not to exceed $30,000 may be imposed for a violation of this subsection.

    d. It is an affirmative defense to a crime under this section that:

    1. the actor posted or otherwise provided prior notice to the person of the actor’s intent to engage in the conduct specified in subsection a., b., or c., and
    2. the actor acted with a lawful purpose.

    e. (1) It shall not be a violation of subsection a. or b. to observe another person in the access way, foyer or entrance to a fitting room or dressing room operated by a retail establishment or to photograph, film, videotape, record or otherwise reproduce the image of such person, if the actor conspicuously posts at the entrance to the fitting room or dressing room prior notice of his intent to make the observations, photographs, films, videotapes, recordings or other reproductions.

    (2) It shall be a violation of subsection c. to disclose in any manner any such photograph, film, videotape or recording of another person using a fitting room or dressing room except under the following circumstances:

    • a. to law enforcement officers in connection with a criminal prosecution;
    • b. pursuant to subpoena or court order for use in a legal proceeding; or
    • c. to a co-worker, manager or supervisor acting within the scope of his employment.

    f. It shall be a violation of subsection a. or b. to observe another person in a private dressing stall of a fitting room or dressing room operated by a retail establishment or to photograph, film, videotape, record or otherwise reproduce the image of another person in a private dressing stall of a fitting room or dressing room.

    g. For purposes of this act, a law enforcement officer, or a corrections officer or guard in a correctional facility or jail, who is engaged in the official performance of his duties shall be deemed to be licensed or privileged to make and to disclose observations, photographs, films, videotapes, recordings or any other reproductions.

    h. Notwithstanding the provisions of J.S.2C:1-8 or any other provisions of law, a conviction arising under subsection b of this section shall not merge with a conviction under subsection c. of this section, nor shall a conviction under subsection c. merge with a conviction under subsection b.

    Credits

    L.2003, c. 206, § 1, eff. Jan. 8, 2004. Amended by L.2016, c. 2, § 1, eff. May 5, 2016.

    N.J.S.A. 2A:58D-1

    2A:58D-1. Invasion of privacy; reproduction or disclosure of images of sexual contact, exposed intimate parts, or undergarment-clad intimate parts of another person; civil liability; damages

    Effective: May 5, 2016

    a. An actor who, in violation of section 1 of L.2003, c. 206 (C.2C:14-9), photographs, films, videotapes, records, or otherwise reproduces in any manner, the image of another person who is engaged in an act of sexual penetration or sexual contact, the exposed intimate parts of another person, or the undergarment-clad intimate parts of another person shall be liable to that person, who may bring a civil action in the Superior Court.

    b. An actor who, in violation of section 1 of L.2003, c. 206 (C.2C:14-9), discloses any photograph, film, videotape, recording or any other reproduction of the image of another person who is engaged in an act of sexual penetration or sexual contact, the exposed intimate parts of another person, or the undergarment-clad intimate parts of another person shall be liable to that person, who may bring a civil action in the Superior Court. For purposes of this section: (1) “disclose” means sell, manufacture, give, provide, lend, trade, mail, deliver, transfer, publish, distribute, circulate, disseminate, present, exhibit, advertise , offer, share, or make available via the Internet or by any other means, whether for pecuniary gain or not; and (2) “intimate parts” has the meaning ascribed to it in N.J.S.2C:14-1.

    c. The court may award:

    1. actual damages, but not less than liquidated damages computed at the rate of $1,000 for each violation of this act;
    2. punitive damages upon proof of willful or reckless disregard of the law;
    3. reasonable attorney’s fees and other litigation costs reasonably incurred; and
    4. such other preliminary and equitable relief as the court determines to be appropriate.

    A conviction of a violation of section 1 of P.L.2003, c. 206 (C.2C:14-9) shall not be a prerequisite for a civil action brought pursuant to this section.

  • New Mexico Criminal Code 30-37A-1: Unauthorized distribution of sensitive images

    Unauthorized distribution of sensitive images consists of distributing, publishing or otherwise making available, by an electronic communications device or other means, sensitive images of a person, with or without information identifying that person, without that person’s consent:

    • (1) with the intent to:
      • (a) harass, humiliate or intimidate that person;
      • (b) incite another to harass, humiliate or intimidate that person;
      • (c) cause that person to reasonably fear for that person’s own or family members’ safety;
      • (d) cause that person to suffer unwanted physical contact or injury; or
      • (e) cause that person to suffer substantial emotional distress; and
    • (2) where the conduct is such that it would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress

    Whoever commits unauthorized distribution of sensitive images is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon a second or subsequent conviction, the offender is guilty of a fourth degree felony.

  • CRIMINAL LAW:

    Section 245.15 Unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image

    1. A person is guilty of unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image when:(a) with intent to cause harm to the emotional, financial or physical welfare of another person, he or she intentionally disseminates or publishes a still or video image of such other person, who is identifiable from the still or video image itself or from information displayed in connection with the still or video image, without such other person’s consent, which depicts:(i) an unclothed or exposed intimate part of such other person; or(ii) such other person engaging in sexual conduct as defined in subdivision ten of section 130.00 of this chapter with another person; and(b) such still or video image was taken under circumstances when the person depicted had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private and the actor knew or reasonably should have known the person depicted intended for the still or video image to remain private, regardless of whether the actor was present when the still or video image was taken.2. For purposes of this section “intimate part” means the naked genitals, pubic area, anus or female nipple of the person.2-a. For purposes of this section “disseminate” and “publish” shall have the same meaning as defined in section 250.40 of this title.3. This section shall not apply to the following:(a) the reporting of unlawful conduct;(b) dissemination or publication of an intimate image made during lawful and common practices of law enforcement, legal proceedings or medical treatment;(c) images involving voluntary exposure in a public or commercial setting; or(d) dissemination or publication of an intimate image made for a legitimate public purpose.4. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit, or to enlarge, the protections that 47 U.S.C § 230 confers on an interactive computer service for content provided by another information content provider, as such terms are defined in 47 U.S.C. § 230.Unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image is a class A misdemeanor.

    CIVIL LAW:

    Section 52-B Private right of action for unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image

    Private right of action for unlawful dissemination or publication of an intimate image.

    1. Any person depicted in a still or video image, regardless of whether or not the original still or video image was consensually obtained, shall have a cause of action against an individual who, for the purpose of harassing, annoying or alarming such person, disseminated or published, or threatened to disseminate or publish, such still or video image, where such image:a. was taken when such person had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private; andb. depicts (i) an unclothed or exposed intimate part of such person; or (ii) such person engaging in sexual conduct, as defined in subdivision ten of section 130.00 of the penal law, with another person; andc. was disseminated or published, or threatened to be disseminated or published, without the consent of such person.2. In any action commenced pursuant to subdivision one of this section, the finder of fact, in its discretion, may award injunctive relief, punitive damages, compensatory damages and reasonable court costs and attorney’s fees.3. This section shall not apply to the following:a. the reporting of unlawful conduct;b. dissemination or publication of an intimate still or video image made during lawful and common practices of law enforcement, legal proceedings or medical treatment;c. images involving voluntary exposure in a public or commercial setting; ord. dissemination or publication of an intimate still or video image made for a legitimate public purpose.4. Any person depicted in a still or video image that depicts an unclothed or exposed intimate part of such person, or such person engaging in sexual conduct as defined in subdivision ten of section 130.00 of the penal law with another person, which is disseminated or published without the consent of such person and where such person had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private, may maintain an action or special proceeding for a court order to require any website that is subject to personal jurisdiction under subdivision five of this section to permanently remove such still or video image; any such court order granted pursuant to this subdivision may direct removal only as to images that are reasonably within such website’s control.5. a. Any website that hosts or transmits a still or video image, viewable in this state, taken under circumstances where the person depicted had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private, which depicts:(i) an unclothed or exposed intimate part, as defined in section 245.15 of the penal law, of a resident of this state; or(ii) a resident of this state engaging in sexual conduct as defined in subdivision ten of section 130.00 of the penal law with another person; andb. Such still or video image is hosted or transmitted without the consent of such resident of this state, shall be subject to personal jurisdiction in a civil action in this state to the maximum extent permitted under the United States constitution and federal law.6. A cause of action or special proceeding under this section shall be commenced the later of either:a. three years after the dissemination or publication of an image; orb. one year from the date a person discovers, or reasonably should have discovered, the dissemination or publication of such image.7. Nothing herein shall be read to require a prior criminal complaint, prosecution or conviction to establish the elements of the cause of action provided for by this section.8. The provisions of this section are in addition to, but shall not supersede, any other rights or remedies available in law or equity.9. If any provision of this section or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this section which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this section are severable.10. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit, or to enlarge, the protections that 47 U.S.C § 230 confers on an interactive computer service for content provided by another information content provider, as such terms are defined in 47 U.S.C. § 230.

  • North Carolina General Statutes 14-190.5A: Disclosure of private images

    • A person is guilty of disclosure of private images if all of the following apply:
      • (1) The person knowingly discloses an image of another person with the intent to do either of the following:
        • Coerce, harass, intimidate, demean, humiliate, or cause financial loss to the depicted person.
        • Cause others to coerce, harass, intimidate, demean, humiliate, or cause financial loss to the depicted person.
      • (2) The depicted person is identifiable from the disclosed image itself or information offered in connection with the image.
      • (3) The depicted person’s intimate parts are exposed or the depicted person is engaged in sexual conduct in the disclosed image.
      • (4) The person discloses the image without the affirmative consent of the depicted person.
      • (5) The person discloses the image under circumstances such that the person knew or should have known that the depicted person had a reasonable expectation of privacy.
    • A violation of this section shall be punishable as follows:
      • (1) For an offense by a person who is 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense, the violation is a Class H felony.
      • (2) For a first offense by a person who is under 18 years of age at the time of the offense, the violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
      • (3) For a second or subsequent offense by a person who is under the age of 18 at the time of the offense, the violation is a Class H felony.
    • In addition to any penalty or other damages, the court may award the destruction of any image made in violation of this section
    • In addition to any other remedies at law or in equity, including an order by the court to destroy any image disclosed in violation of this section, any person whose image is disclosed, or used, as described in subsection (b) of this section, has a civil cause of action against any person who discloses or uses the image and is entitled to recover from the other person any of the following:
      • (1) Actual damages, but not less than liquidated damages, to be computed at the rate of one thousand dollars ($1,000) per day for each day of the violation or in the amount of ten thousand dollars ($10,000), whichever is higher.
      • (2) Punitive damages.
      • (3) A reasonable attorneys’ fee and other litigation costs reasonably incurred.
    • The civil cause of action may be brought no more than one year after the initial discovery of the disclosure, but in no event may the action be commenced more than seven years from the most recent disclosure of the private image.

  • North Dakota Century Code 12.1-17-07.2: Distribution of intimate images without or against consent

    A person commits the offense of distribution of intimate images if the person knowingly or intentionally distributes to any third party any intimate image of an individual eighteen years of age or older, if:

    • The person knows that the depicted individual has not given consent to the person to distribute the intimate image;
    • The intimate image was created by or provided to the person under circumstances in which the individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy; and
    • Actual emotional distress or harm is caused to the individual as a result of the distribution under this section
      Distribution of an intimate image is a class A misdemeanor

  • Ohio Revised Code 2917.211: Dissemination of image of another person

    • No person shall knowingly disseminate an image of another person if all of the following apply:
      • (1) The person in the image is eighteen years of age or older.
      • (2) The person in the image can be identified from the image itself or from information displayed in connection with the image and the offender supplied the identifying information.
      • (3) The person in the image is in a state of nudity or is engaged in a sexual act.
      • (4) The image is disseminated without consent from the person in the image.
      • (5) The image is disseminated with intent to harm the person in the image.
    • Whoever violates this section is guilty of nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images, a misdemeanor of the third degree.
    • If the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a violation of this section, nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images is a misdemeanor of the second degree.
    • If the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to two or more violations of this section, nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images is a misdemeanor of the first degree.

    Ohio Revised Code 2307.66: Civil action for dissemination of images

    • A victim of a violation of section 2917.211 of the Revised Code has and may commence a civil cause of action against the offender for any of the following, in addition to reasonable attorney’s fees and the costs of bringing the action:
      • (1) An injunction or a temporary restraining order prohibiting further dissemination of the image that is the subject of the violation;
      • (2) Compensatory and punitive damages for harm resulting from the violation.
    • The victim shall be presumed to have suffered harm as a result of the nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images.

  • Oklahoma Statutes 1040.13b: Nonconsensual dissemination of sexual images

    • A person commits nonconsensual dissemination of private sexual images when he or she:
      • Intentionally disseminates an image of another person:
        • who is at least eighteen (18) years of age,
        • who is identifiable from the image itself or information displayed in connection with the image, and
        • who is engaged in a sexual act or whose intimate parts are exposed, in whole or in part;
      • Disseminates the image with the intent to harass, intimidate or coerce the person, or under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that dissemination of the image would harass, intimidate or coerce the person;
      • Obtains the image under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private; and
      • Knows or a reasonable person should have known that the person in the image has not consented to the dissemination.
    • Any person who violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than one (1) year or by a fine of not more than One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00), or both such fine and imprisonment
    • The court shall have the authority to order the defendant to remove the disseminated image should the court find it is in the power of the defendant to do so.

    https://oksenate.gov/sites/default/files/2019-12/os21.pdf page 293

  • Oregon Revised Statutes 163.472: Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image

    • A person commits the crime of unlawful dissemination of an intimate image if:
      • (a) The person, with the intent to harass, humiliate or injure another person, knowingly causes to be disclosed through an Internet website an identifiable image of the other person whose intimate parts are visible or who is engaged in sexual conduct;
      • (b) The person knows or reasonably should have known that the other person does not consent to the disclosure;
      • (c) The other person is harassed, humiliated or injured by the disclosure; and
      • (d) A reasonable person would be harassed, humiliated or injured by the disclosure
    • Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image is a Class A misdemeanor.
    • Unlawful dissemination of an intimate image is a Class C felony if the person has a prior conviction under this section at the time of the offense.

  • Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 18 Section 3131: Unlawful dissemination of intimate image

    • A person commits the offense of unlawful dissemination of intimate image if, with intent to harass, annoy or alarm a current or former sexual or intimate partner, the person disseminates a visual depiction of the current or former sexual or intimate partner in a state of nudity or engaged in sexual conduct
    • An offense under subsection (a) shall be:
      • (1) A misdemeanor of the first degree, when the person depicted is a minor.
      • (2) A misdemeanor of the second degree, when the person depicted is not a minor.

    Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 42 Section 8316.1: Damages in actions for unlawful dissemination of intimate image

    • A person may bring a civil cause of action based upon unlawful dissemination of intimate image, as defined in 18 Pa.C.S. § 3131 (relating to unlawful dissemination of intimate image), in order to recover damages for any loss or injury sustained as a result of the violation.
    • A court of competent jurisdiction may award damages as set forth in this subsection. In determining the extent of injury, the court shall consider that dissemination of an intimate image may cause long-term or permanent injury. The court may award:
      • (1) Actual damages arising from the incident or $500, whichever is greater. Damages include loss of money, reputation or property, whether real or personal. The court may, in its discretion, award up to three times the actual damages sustained, but not less than $500.
      • (2) Reasonable attorney fees and court costs.
      • (3) Additional relief the court deems necessary and proper

  • Rhode Island General Laws 11-64-3: Unauthorized dissemination of indecent material

    • A person is guilty of unauthorized dissemination of a sexually explicit visual image of another person when the person intentionally, by any means, disseminates, publishes, or sells:
      • (1) A visual image that depicts another identifiable person eighteen (18) years or older engaged in sexually explicit conduct or of the intimate areas of that person;
      • (2) The visual image was made, captured, recorded, or obtained under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private;
      • (3) The visual image was disseminated, published, or sold without the consent of the depicted person; and
      • (4) With knowledge or with reckless disregard for the likelihood that the depicted person will suffer harm, or with the intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the depicted person.
    • A first violation of this section shall be a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, subject to imprisonment of not more than one year, a fine of not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both. A second or subsequent violation of this section shall be a felony and, upon conviction, subject to imprisonment for not more than three (3) years, a fine of not more than three thousand dollars ($3,000), or both.
    • Any person who demands payment of money, property, services, or anything else of value from a person in exchange for removing any visual image described in subsection (a) from public view shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, be subject to imprisonment for up to five (5) years, a fine of up to five thousand dollars ($5,000), or both.

  • South Carolina Code of Laws Section 16-15-332: Unauthorized disclosure of intimate images

    Definitions

    SECTION 1. Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

    Section 16-15-330. For purposes of Section 16-15-332, the term:

    (1) “Digitally forged intimate image” means any intimate image of an identifiable individual that appears to a reasonable person to be indistinguishable from an authentic visual depiction of the individual, and that is generated or substantially modified using machine-learning techniques or any other computer-generated or machine-generated means to falsely depict an individual’s appearance or conduct, regardless of whether the visual depiction indicates, through a label or some other form of information published with the visual depiction, that the visual depiction is not authentic.

    (2) “Effective consent” means the affirmative, conscious, and voluntary authorization by an individual with legal capacity to give authorization. The disclosure of the intimate image or digitally forged intimate image by the identifiable individual to another person is not sufficient effective consent under this section.

    (3) “Identifiable individual” means the identity of the depicted person through an intimate image or digitally forged intimate image, or whose identity can be determined through any accompanying or subsequent information or material related to the visual material.

    (4) “Intimate image” means any still or videographic image of an identifiable individual that depicts wholly or partially uncovered genitals, pubic area, anus, or postpubescent female nipple or areola of an individual, the display or transfer of semen or vaginal secretion, sexual activity, as defined in Section 16-15-375, or sexually explicit nudity, as defined in Section 16-15-375.

    Unauthorized disclosure of intimate images

    SECTION 2.    Article 3, Chapter 15, Title 16 of the S.C. Code is amended by adding:

    Section 16-15-332.    (A) A person who intentionally disseminates an intimate image or a digitally forged intimate image of another person without the effective consent of the depicted person is guilty of the unauthorized disclosure of intimate images. A person intentionally disseminates an intimate image or a digitally forged intimate image if he has knowledge that the image was obtained or created under circumstances when he knew or reasonably should have known the person depicted had a reasonable expectation of privacy. Any dissemination of multiple intimate images of the same individual as part of a common act is a single offense. The fact that the identifiable individual:

    (1) provided affirmative consent for the creation of the intimate image shall not establish that the individual provided effective consent for the dissemination of the intimate image; and

    (2) disclosed the intimate image to another individual shall not establish that the identifiable individual provided effective consent for the dissemination of the intimate image by the person alleged to have violated this section.

    (B) A person who violates the provisions of this section, with the intent to cause physical, mental, economic, or reputational harm to the individual portrayed in the image, or for the purpose of profit or pecuniary gain, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, for a:

    (1) first offense, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than five years, or both; or

    (2) second or subsequent offense, after an intervening conviction or adjudication for a previous violation of the provisions of this section, must be fined not more than ten thousand dollars or imprisoned not less than one year but not more than ten years, or both. No part of the minimum sentence may be suspended nor probation granted.

    (C) A person who violates the provisions of this section, without the intent to cause physical, mental, economic, or reputational harm to the individual portrayed in the image, or for the purpose of profit or pecuniary gain, for a:

    (1) first offense, is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than one year, or both; or

    (2) second or subsequent offense, after an intervening conviction or adjudication for a previous violation of the provisions of this section, is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.

    (D) Intimate images or digitally forged intimate images cannot be duplicated for the purpose of criminal discovery requests and motions.

    (E) A violation of this section is not a lesser-included offense of any other applicable offense but is a separate offense and does not preclude charges under another applicable provision of law.

    (F) The provisions of this section do not apply to any intimate image or digitally forged intimate image created by law enforcement pursuant to a criminal investigation which is otherwise lawful.

    Time effective

    SECTION 3.    This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.

    Ratified the 8th day of May, 2025.

    Approved the 12th day of May, 2025.

  • South Dakota Codified Laws 22-21-4: Use or dissemination of visual recording or photographic device without consent and with intent to self-gratify, harass, or embarrass

    • No person may use or disseminate in any form any visual recording or photographic device to photograph or visually record any other person without clothing or under or through the clothing, or with another person depicted in a sexual manner, for the purpose of viewing the body of, or the undergarments worn by, that other person, without the consent or knowledge of that other person, with the intent to self-gratify, to harass, or embarrass and invade the privacy of that other person, under circumstances in which the other person has a reasonable expectation of privacy.
    • A violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
    • However, a violation of this section is a Class 6 felony if the victim is seventeen years of age or younger and the perpetrator is at least twenty-one years old.

  • Tennessee Code §39-17-318: Unlawful exposure

    • A person commits unlawful exposure who, with the intent to cause emotional distress, distributes an image of the intimate part or parts of another identifiable person if:
      • (1) The image was photographed or recorded under circumstances where the parties agreed or understood that the image would remain private; and
      • (2) The person depicted in the image suffers emotional distress.
    • A violation of subsection (a) is a Class A misdemeanor.

  • Texas Penal Code 21.16: Unlawful disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material

    A person commits an offense if:

    • (1) without the effective consent of the depicted person, the person intentionally discloses visual material depicting another person with the person’s intimate parts exposed or engaged in sexual conduct;
    • (2) the visual material was obtained by the person or created under circumstances in which the depicted person had a reasonable expectation that the visual material would remain private;
    • (3) the disclosure of the visual material causes harm to the depicted person; and
    • (4) the disclosure of the visual material reveals the identity of the depicted person in any manner, including through:
      • (a) any accompanying or subsequent information or material related to the visual material; or
      • (b) information or material provided by a third party in response to the disclosure of the visual material.
      • (c) A person commits an offense if the person intentionally threatens to disclose, without the consent of the depicted person, visual material depicting another person with the person’s intimate parts exposed or engaged in sexual conduct and the actor makes the threat to obtain a benefit:
        • (1) in return for not making the disclosure; or
      • (2) in connection with the threatened disclosure.
        (d) A person commits an offense if, knowing the character and content of the visual material, the person promotes visual material described by Subsection (b) on an Internet website or other forum for publication that is owned or operated by the person.

    An offense under this section is a state jail felony.

    Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code 98B.002: Unlawful disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material

    A defendant is liable, as provided by this chapter, to a person depicted in intimate visual material for damages arising from the disclosure of the material if:

    • (1) the defendant discloses the intimate visual material without the effective consent of the depicted person;
    • (2) the intimate visual material was obtained by the defendant or created under circumstances in which the depicted person had a reasonable expectation that the material would remain private;
    • (3) the disclosure of the intimate visual material causes harm to the depicted person; and
    • (4) the disclosure of the intimate visual material reveals the identity of the depicted person in any manner, including through:
      • (A) any accompanying or subsequent information or material related to the intimate visual material; or
      • (B) information or material provided by a third party in response to the disclosure of the intimate visual material.
    • A defendant is liable, as provided by this chapter, to a person depicted in intimate visual material for damages arising from the promotion of the material if, knowing the character and content of the material, the defendant promotes intimate visual material described by Subsection (a) on an Internet website or other forum for publication that is owned or operated by the defendant.
    • A claimant who prevails in a suit under this chapter shall be awarded:
      • (1) actual damages, including damages for mental anguish;
      • (2) court costs; and
      • (3) reasonable attorney’s fees.
    • A court in which a suit is brought under this chapter, on the motion of a party, may issue a temporary restraining order or a temporary or permanent injunction to restrain and prevent the disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material with respect to the person depicted in the material.
    • A court that issues a temporary restraining order or a temporary or permanent injunction under Subsection (a) may award to the party who brought the motion damages in the amount of:
      • (1) $1,000 for each violation of the court’s order or injunction, if the disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material is wilful or intentional; or
      • (2) $500 for each violation of the court’s order or injunction, if the disclosure or promotion of intimate visual material is not wilful or intentional.

  • Utah Code 76-5b-203: Distribution of an intimate image

     

  • 13 V.S.A. § 2606: Disclosure of sexually explicit images without consent.

    • A person violates this section if he or she knowingly discloses a visual image of an identifiable person who is nude or who is engaged in sexual conduct, without his or her consent, with the intent to harm, harass, intimidate, threaten, or coerce the person depicted, and the disclosure would cause a reasonable person to suffer harm. A person may be identifiable from the image itself or information offered in connection with the image. Consent to recording of the visual image does not, by itself, constitute consent for disclosure of the image.
      • (1) A person who violates this subdivision (1) shall be imprisoned not more than two years or fined not more than $2,000.00, or both.
      • (2) A person who violates subdivision (1) of this subsection with the intent of disclosing the image for financial profit shall be imprisoned not more than five years or fined not more than $10,000.00, or both.
    • A person who maintains an Internet website, online service, online application, or mobile application that contains a visual image of an identifiable person who is nude or who is engaged in sexual conduct shall not solicit or accept a fee or other consideration to remove, delete, correct, modify, or refrain from posting or disclosing the visual image if requested by the depicted person.
    • A plaintiff shall have a private cause of action against a defendant who knowingly discloses, without the plaintiff’s consent, an identifiable visual image of the plaintiff while he or she is nude or engaged in sexual conduct and the disclosure causes the plaintiff harm.
    • In addition to any other relief available at law, the court may order equitable relief, including a temporary restraining order, a preliminary injunction, or a permanent injunction ordering the defendant to cease display or disclosure of the image. The court may grant injunctive relief maintaining the confidentiality of a plaintiff using a pseudonym.

  • Code of Virginia 18.2-386.2: Unlawful dissemination or sale of images of another

    • Any person who, with the intent to coerce, harass, or intimidate, maliciously disseminates or sells any videographic or still image created by any means whatsoever that depicts another person who is totally nude, or in a state of undress so as to expose the genitals, pubic area, buttocks, or female breast, where such person knows or has reason to know that he is not licensed or authorized to disseminate or sell such videographic or still image is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor.

  • Washington Revised Code 9A.86.010: Disclosing Intimate Images

    (1) A person commits the crime of disclosing intimate images when the person knowingly discloses an intimate image of another person and the person disclosing the image:
    (a) Obtained it under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private;
    (b) Knows or should have known that the depicted person has not consented to the disclosure; and
    (c) Knows or reasonably should know that disclosure would cause harm to the depicted person.
    (2) A person who is under the age of eighteen is not guilty of the crime of disclosing intimate images unless the person:
    (a) Intentionally and maliciously disclosed an intimate image of another person;
    (b) Obtained it under circumstances in which a reasonable person would know or understand that the image was to remain private; and
    (c) Knows or should have known that the depicted person has not consented to the disclosure.
    (3) This section does not apply to:
    (a) Images involving voluntary exposure in public or commercial settings; or
    (b) Disclosures made in the public interest including, but not limited to, the reporting of unlawful conduct, or the lawful and common practices of law enforcement, criminal reporting, legal proceedings, or medical treatment.
    (4) This section does not impose liability upon the following entities solely as a result of content provided by another person:
    (a) An interactive computer service, as defined in 47 U.S.C. Sec. 230(f)(2);
    (b) A mobile telecommunications service provider, as defined in RCW 82.04.065; or
    (c) A telecommunications network or broadband provider.
    (5) It shall be an affirmative defense to a violation of this section that the defendant is a family member of a minor and did not intend any harm or harassment in disclosing the images of the minor to other family or friends of the defendant. This affirmative defense shall not apply to matters defined under RCW 9.68A.011.
    (6) For purposes of this section:
    (a) “Disclosing” includes transferring, publishing, or disseminating, as well as making a digital depiction available for distribution or downloading through the facilities of a telecommunications network or through any other means of transferring computer programs or data to a computer;
    (b) “Intimate image” means any photograph, motion picture film, videotape, digital image, or any other recording or transmission of another person who is identifiable from the image itself or from information displayed with or otherwise connected to the image, and that was taken in a private setting, is not a matter of public concern, and depicts:
    (i) Sexual activity, including sexual intercourse as defined in RCW 9A.44.010 and masturbation; or
    (ii) A person’s intimate body parts, whether nude or visible through less than opaque clothing, including the genitals, pubic area, anus, or postpubescent female nipple.
    (7) The crime of disclosing intimate images:
    (a) Is a gross misdemeanor on the first offense; or
    (b) Is a class C felony if the defendant has one or more prior convictions for disclosing intimate images.
    (8) Nothing in this section is construed to:
    (a) Alter or negate any rights, obligations, or immunities of an interactive service provider under 47 U.S.C. Sec. 230; or
    (b) Limit or preclude a plaintiff from securing or recovering any other available remedy.

  • Code of West Virginia 61-8-28a: Nonconsensual disclosure of private intimate images

    §61-8-28a. Nonconsensual disclosure of private intimate images; definitions; and penalties.
    (a) As used in this section:

    (1) “Disclose” means to publish, publicly display, distribute, deliver, circulate or disseminate by any means, including, but not limited to, electronic transmission.

    (2) “Image” means a photograph, videotape, motion picture film, digital recording or any product of any mechanical or electronic recording process or device that can preserve, for later viewing, a visual image.

    (3) “Intimate parts” means a person’s genitalia, pubic area, anus or female post-pubescent breasts.

    (4) To “publicly disclose” means to disclose an image to one or more persons other than those persons whom the person depicted understood would view the image at the time it was captured.

    (b) No person may knowingly and intentionally disclose, cause to be disclosed or threaten to disclose, with the intent to harass, intimidate, threaten, humiliate, embarrass, or coerce, an image of another which shows the intimate parts of the depicted person or shows the depicted person engaged in sexually explicit conduct which was captured under circumstances where the person depicted had a reasonable expectation that the image would not be publicly disclosed.

    (c) (1) A person convicted of a violation of subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be confined in jail for not more than one year, fined not less than $1,000 nor more than $5,000, or both confined and fined.

    (2) Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision (1) of this subsection, a person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of subsection (b) of this section is guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be imprisoned in a state correctional facility for not more than three years, fined not less than $2,500 nor more than $10,000, or both imprisoned and fined.

    (d) The provisions of this section do not apply to:

    (1) Images disclosed with the prior written consent of the person depicted;

    (2) Images depicting the person voluntarily exposing himself or herself in a public or commercial setting; or

    (3) Disclosures made through the reporting of illegal conduct or the lawful and common practices of law enforcement, criminal reporting, legal proceeding or medical treatment.

    (e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to impose liability on the provider of an interactive computer service as defined by 47 U. S. C. §230(f)(2), an information service as defined by 47 U. S. C. §153(24), or telecommunications service as defined by 47 U. S. C. §153(53), for content provided by another person.

  • Code of Wisconsin 942.09: Representation depicting a nude or partially nude person or depicting a person engaging in sexually explicit conduct

    • Whoever does any of the following is guilty of a Class I felony:
      • Captures an intimate representation without the consent of the person depicted under circumstances in which he or she has a reasonable expectation of privacy, if the person knows or has reason to know that the person who is depicted does not consent to the capture of the intimate representation.
      • Makes a reproduction of an intimate representation that the person knows or has reason to know was captured in violation of subd. 1. and that depicts an intimate representation captured in violation of subd. 1., if the person depicted in the reproduction did not consent to the making of the reproduction.
      • Possesses, distributes, or exhibits an intimate representation that was captured in violation of subd. 1. or a reproduction made in violation of subd. 2., if the person knows or has reason to know that the intimate representation was captured in violation of subd. 1. or the reproduction was made in violation of subd. 2., and if the person who is depicted in the intimate representation or reproduction did not consent to the possession, distribution, or exhibition.
    • Whoever does any of the following is guilty of a Class A misdemeanor:
      • Posts, publishes, or causes to be posted or published, a private representation if the actor knows that the person depicted does not consent to the posting or publication of the private representation.
      • Posts, publishes, or causes to be posted or published, a depiction of a person that he or she knows is a private representation, without the consent of the person depicted.
      • A person who commits a violation specified under par. (a) is guilty of a Class I felony if the person depicted or represented in the violation of par. (a) had not, at the time of the violation, attained the age of 18 years.

  • Wyo. Stat. § 6-4-306: Unlawful dissemination of intimate images; definitions; penalties; exemptions from liability.

    (a) As used in this section:

    (i) “Displaying sexual acts” means displaying an image of sexual acts regardless of whether a person’s intimate parts are visible in the image;

    (ii) “Disseminate” means to sell, distribute, deliver, provide, exhibit, post on social media or otherwise make available to a third party, but shall not include displaying an intimate image in private to the person depicted in the image;

    (iii) “Image” means a photograph, film, videotape, recording, digital file or any other recording, including a computer generated image that purports to represent an identifiable person;

    (iv) “Intimate image” means an image of a person’s intimate parts or of a person engaging in sexual acts when the person depicted is identifiable from the image itself or from information displayed with or otherwise connected to the image;

    (v) “Intimate parts” means the external genitalia, perineum, anus or pubic area of any person or the breast of a female person;

    (vi) “Sexual acts” means sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio, analingus, anal intercourse or any intrusion, however slight, by any object or any part of a person’s body into the genital or anal opening of another person’s body if the intrusion can reasonably be construed as being for the purpose of sexual arousal, gratification or abuse;

    (vii) “Social media” means any electronic medium, including an interactive computer service, telephone network or data network, that allows users to create, share, post or view user generated content, including but not limited to images, videos, still photographs, blogs, video blogs, podcasts, instant messages, electronic mail or internet website profiles.

    (b) A person eighteen (18) years of age or older is guilty of the offense of disseminating an intimate image if the person:

    (i) Disseminated an intimate image of another person;

    (ii) Knew or should have known that the depicted person had a reasonable expectation that the image would remain private and the depicted person did not expressly give consent for the image’s dissemination; and

    (iii) Intended:

    (A) To humiliate, harm, harass, threaten or coerce another; or

    (B) For sexual gratification or arousal of others or of the person disseminating the intimate image.

    (c) Dissemination of an intimate image is a misdemeanor punishable by not more than one (1) year imprisonment, a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), or both.

    (d) Nothing in the section shall be construed to impose criminal liability on the provider of an interactive computer service as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 230, an information service as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 153 or a telecommunications service as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 153, for content provided by another person.

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