Scorned lovers have ditched keying their ex’s car in favour of revenge porn –the act of sharing a person’s intimate photographs or videos without consent.
Instances of revenge porn have surged over the years, prompting the Government to step in and fund a national study of more than 4,200 individuals.
The results were staggering: one in five Australians have had intimate photographs taken without their consent, and have then been confronted with threats to share them on social media. The study also found that men and women were equally likely to be targeted.
Under proposed new Australian laws, social media networks could face fines of approximately $500,000 for facilitating revenge porn. Individuals distributing these images without consent also risk a hefty fine of approximately $100,000.
Hon. Mitch Field, Communications Minister, hoped the fines would act as a deterrents. “Civil penalties will make people stop and think before distributing intimate images without consent – whether that’s an ex-partner of a victim seeking revenge, an acquaintance or complete stranger being malicious,” he said.
Trusted since 1919, HHG Legal Group understand that all circumstances are different and unique. If you feel targeted or have a legal matter you wish to discuss, you can head to our free legal assistance clinics (open every Wednesday between 4pm – 5pm). Call 1800 609 945 or email we.help.people@hhg.com.au to book your 15 minute appointment at any of our three locations.
