First 24 Hours: Critical Actions
If you've discovered intimate content has been shared without consent, or you're being threatened with its release, take these steps immediately:
Step 1: Preserve All Evidence (Do This First)
Before taking any other action, document everything:
- Screenshot all threats, messages, and posts (include timestamps and usernames)
- Record URLs where content appears
- Save copies of all communications with the person responsible
- Use screen recording if content is video
- Export chat histories from messaging apps
- Note any witnesses who saw the content or threats
Why first? Evidence can disappear quickly. The person may delete messages, or platforms may remove content before you can document it.
Step 2: Limit the Spread
Take immediate steps to prevent further distribution:
- Do NOT share links to the content (even to report it)
- Request trusted friends/family NOT to share or engage with the content
- Consider temporarily setting social media accounts to private
- Google yourself to find where content has spread
Step 3: Secure Your Accounts
Protect yourself from further intrusion:
- Change passwords on all accounts (email, social media, cloud storage)
- Enable two-factor authentication everywhere
- Check for unauthorized access in account security settings
- Revoke access of any shared accounts with the perpetrator
- Review what devices have access to your cloud storage
Step 4: Assess Your Legal Options
Understand what legal remedies are available:
- If you have an NDA: You have contractual claims for breach - contact an attorney
- Criminal law: Most states have "revenge porn" laws making this a crime - contact police
- Civil claims: Even without an NDA, you may have claims for invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, etc.
- Copyright: If you took the photos, you own the copyright and can file DMCA takedown notices
Do Not Confront the Perpetrator Yet
While your instinct may be to immediately confront the person or demand they remove the content, wait until you've preserved evidence. Confrontation often leads to evidence destruction. Let an attorney or law enforcement make contact strategically.
Response Timeline
Hours 0-2
Evidence Preservation
Screenshot and document everything. Do not delete any messages or content. Save to multiple secure locations.
Hours 2-6
Account Security & Support
Secure all accounts. Contact a trusted friend or family member. Call a crisis helpline if needed for emotional support.
Hours 6-24
Report & File Takedowns
Report content to platforms. File police report if criminal conduct occurred. Begin platform removal process.
Days 1-3
Legal Consultation
Consult with an attorney about your options. Prepare cease and desist if appropriate. Consider whether to pursue civil claims.
Week 1
Ongoing Monitoring
Set up Google Alerts for your name. Monitor for re-posting. Follow up on platform takedown requests.
Ongoing
Long-term Steps
Consider reputation management services. Pursue legal action if warranted. Self-care and mental health support.
Platform-Specific Takedown Procedures
Major platforms have specific processes for removing non-consensual intimate imagery. Here are direct links to their reporting mechanisms:
| Platform | Report Page | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Facebook/Instagram | Report Intimate Images | Can also proactively prevent sharing via StopNCII.org |
| X (Twitter) | NCII Report Form | Dedicated team for intimate image removal |
| Google (Search) | Request Removal | Can remove from search results (doesn't remove source) |
| TikTok | Privacy Report | In-app reporting also available |
| Snapchat | Support Portal | Select "Safety" then "Someone shared my intimate images" |
| Intimate Media Report | Usually responds within 24-48 hours | |
| Discord | Trust & Safety | Select "Report content that belongs to me" |
| Pornhub/MindGeek | Content Removal | Requires photo ID verification |
StopNCII.org - Proactive Protection
If content hasn't been shared yet but you're worried it might be, StopNCII.org allows you to create a "hash" (digital fingerprint) of intimate images. Participating platforms will then block those images from being uploaded. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others participate.
Evidence Preservation Checklist
If you're considering legal action (civil or criminal), proper evidence preservation is critical. Here's what to document:
-
Screenshots of all content and posts Include the full browser window showing URL, timestamp, and platform. Use browser extensions that capture entire pages.
-
All communications with the perpetrator Texts, emails, DMs, voicemails - export complete histories, not just selected messages. Include metadata if possible.
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Threats and demands Any messages threatening to release content, demanding money, or making other demands. These are critical for criminal charges.
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URLs and platform information Full URLs where content appears, usernames used to post, dates first noticed. Use the Wayback Machine to preserve pages.
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Your original NDA (if applicable) The signed agreement, proof of their signature, any amendments or modifications discussed.
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Proof of damages Documented emotional distress, lost job opportunities, therapy costs, any quantifiable harm. Keep receipts and records.
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Witness information Contact information for anyone who saw the content, received messages from the perpetrator, or can verify the situation.
Professional Evidence Preservation
For serious cases, consider hiring a forensic specialist or using a service like Page Vault or LegalWeb to create legally admissible evidence captures with certified timestamps and authentication.
Legal Options Overview
If You Have an NDA
Having an NDA significantly strengthens your position:
- Breach of Contract Claim: Direct cause of action for violating the agreement
- Liquidated Damages: If your NDA specified damages amounts, you may recover those
- Injunctive Relief: Courts can order the removal of content and prohibit further sharing
- Attorney's Fees: If your NDA includes a prevailing party clause, you may recover costs
Criminal Options (Available in Most States)
Non-consensual sharing of intimate images is a crime in 48 states plus D.C. Contact local police or the district attorney's office to file a report. Potential charges include:
- Non-consensual pornography / "Revenge porn" statutes
- Extortion or blackmail (if money was demanded)
- Harassment or stalking
- Computer crimes (if images were obtained through hacking)
Civil Claims (Even Without an NDA)
- Invasion of Privacy: Public disclosure of private facts
- Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress: For extreme and outrageous conduct
- Copyright Infringement: If you took the photos, you own the copyright
- State-specific civil remedies: Many states have specific civil causes of action for image abuse
Free Legal Resources
The Cyber Civil Rights Initiative maintains a directory of attorneys who handle non-consensual pornography cases, many offering free consultations. The Without My Consent organization also provides legal resources.
Cease and Desist Communication
In some cases, a formal cease and desist letter can stop the behavior without litigation. This should be done after evidence preservation and ideally with attorney guidance.
When a Cease and Desist May Work
- The perpetrator has assets or a reputation to protect
- They may not have understood the legal consequences
- Content has limited distribution so far
- You want a quick resolution without prolonged litigation
When It May Not Be Appropriate
- The perpetrator is anonymous or in another country
- They've explicitly stated they don't care about consequences
- Content is already widely distributed
- Active extortion is occurring (let law enforcement handle)
Sample Language (Adapt with Attorney Guidance)
This letter serves as formal notice that you have breached the Non-Disclosure Agreement executed between us on [DATE] by [describe specific breach]. You are hereby demanded to immediately: (1) remove all intimate content you have shared from any platform or location; (2) cease all further disclosure of confidential information covered by the Agreement; (3) confirm in writing within 48 hours that you have complied with these demands. Failure to comply will result in immediate legal action, including but not limited to claims for breach of contract, violation of [STATE] revenge pornography statutes, invasion of privacy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. We will seek all available remedies including liquidated damages of $[AMOUNT] as specified in the Agreement, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees.
Attorney Review Recommended
Have an attorney review any cease and desist before sending. Poorly worded demands can constitute threats or undermine your legal position. An attorney letterhead also adds significant weight.
Taking Care of Yourself
Being the victim of image abuse or NDA breach is traumatic. While dealing with the practical and legal aspects, don't neglect your emotional wellbeing:
Immediate Support
- You are not at fault. The person who shared without consent is the one who did wrong.
- Contact the Cyber Civil Rights Initiative helpline: 844-878-2274
- Reach out to a trusted friend or family member
- Consider speaking with a therapist or counselor
Managing the Emotional Impact
- Limit your exposure to checking for the content - set specific times rather than constant monitoring
- Delegate monitoring to a trusted person if possible
- Take breaks from social media if it becomes overwhelming
- Focus on what you can control: your response, legal action, platform reports
Long-term Recovery
- Consider joining a support group for survivors of image abuse
- Document your journey for potential future advocacy or legal purposes
- Remember that this situation does not define you
- Many survivors have successfully rebuilt their privacy and moved forward
You're Not Alone
Thousands of people experience image abuse every year. There are communities, advocates, and legal professionals who understand what you're going through and are ready to help.