The rise in the possession of smart phones makes it easy for anyone to make, store and distribute photos and videos of intimate behaviour. As most teenagers will not likely end up in a long term relationship with their current sweetheart, there may be a temptation to pass on those videos after the fling or relationship is over, especially if it ended badly. This creates revenge porn. The desire for revenge can be just as strong in adults. It can be used as means of exerting power over a partner or ex partner in a domestic abuse situation. The feelings of shame and guilt from the airing of private moments now made public have led in some cases to suicide, but certainly to depression and distress for many.
In April 2017, the new law on revenge porn in Scotland came into force under the Abusive Behaviour and Sexual Harm Act 2016. The maximum penalty for disclosing or threatening to disclose an intimate photo or video is 5 years’ imprisonment. The offence includes images taken in private where someone was nude or only in underwear or showing a person engaged in a sexual act.
Over a period of 6 weeks (November 2014-January 2015) Scottish Women’s Aid, alongside partner organisations, hosted an online survey to explore people’s experiences of non-consensual sharing of intimate media (NCSIM); more commonly known as “revenge porn”.
A total of 86 responses were received. The results can be found here. This report helped support the case for this new legislation.
