New law makes it illegal to share pictures or films of a personal nature without consent
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Over recent weeks South Wales Police has received reports of ‘private and intimate’ images of adult females being shared through various online platforms.
Historically, the sharing of images without consent, in certain circumstances, has not been covered by legislation. However, the law changed on February 1, 2024.
The new law, Section 188 of the Online Safety Act 2023, introduces an offence into the existing Sexual Offences Act 2003, meaning that it is now illegal to share intimate photographs or films without consent.
South Wales Police’s Cyber Crime Unit have investigated these recent reports and on Tuesday, March 26, arrested a 25-year-old man in connection with this new offence. The man has since been released under investigation and the investigation is ongoing.
The Head of Economic & Cyber Crime Unit, Detective Inspector Andrew Westlake said:
“South Wales Police is committed to protecting and safeguarding victims of crime. Online platforms are becoming increasingly common for perpetrators to harass, intimidate, and exploit women.
“We understand the importance of safeguarding the online spaces where individuals should feel safe and secure. Every effort will be made to investigate these cases thoroughly. Perpetrators will be pursued and be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law”
For anyone impacted by this sort of offence, please see below guidance and support:
Revenge Porn Helpline
A helpline supporting adults (aged 18+) who are experiencing intimate image abuse, also known as, revenge porn.
Revenge Porn Helpline - 0345 6000 459
Stop Non-Consensual Intimate Image Abuse
StopNCII.org is operated by the Revenge Porn Helpline, which is part of SWGfL, an international charity that believes that everyone should benefit from technology, free from harm.
Samaritans
Whatever you’re facing, a Samaritan will face it with you.
Call us any time, day or night 116 123
If you have been affected by this type of crime and want to make a complaint, you can do so via this link: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/62SWP24B85-PO1