UK Government Cracks Down on Sharing Intimate Images Without Consent
The UK government has declared sharing intimate images without consent a ‘priority offence’ under the Online Safety Act. Social media giants now face legal duty to swiftly remove such content— or risk huge fines.
New Law Targets Online Abuse Head-On
Announced on 13 September 2024 by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the move aims to toughen online safety laws. Tech firms must play an active role in stopping the spread of non-consensual intimate images.
- Priority Offence Status: Sharing intimate images without consent is now grouped with severe crimes like weapon sales and public order violations.
- Mandatory Removal: Social media platforms and search engines must quickly remove non-consensual intimate images.
- Big Fines: Platforms ignoring these rules risk penalties up to 10% of global revenue, enforced by Ofcom.
Government and Advocates Back the Move
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said, “The rise in intimate image abuse online is utterly intolerable. This change ensures tech companies step up and tackle this devastating crime, preventing a misogynistic culture online.”
Safeguarding Minister Jess Phillips called it a “national emergency.” She added, “Technology companies must do much more to safeguard users online.”
Journalist and victim Georgia Harrison praised the law, saying, “This legislation could have shielded me from exploitation and validates that my voice matters.”
Next Steps: Law to Kick In Next Year
The Online Safety Act will come into effect in 2025. Online platforms must monitor, prevent, and remove illegal content, including intimate image abuse. The government vows to hold tech firms accountable and create a safer online space.
This crackdown is part of a wider plan to halve violence against women and girls within a decade, tackling harmful content and culture on social media.
