South Shropshire MP Philip Dunne welcomes initiative to protect victims and crack down on offenders.

The new legislation, announced on Monday, will impose strict penalties on individuals who share intimate images without consent, offering better protection for victims and ensuring the perpetrators face the full force of the law.

Under amendments to the Online Safety Bill, offenders who engage in the reprehensible sharing of intimate images, commonly referred to as “revenge porn”, will be liable for imprisonment up to six months.

The burden of proof on prosecutors to demonstrate the intention of distress has been lifted, making it easier to charge and convict those who commit this violation. Additionally, perpetrators found guilty of intending to cause distress, alarm, or humiliation, or seeking sexual gratification through sharing such images, may face up to two years in prison. Offenders driven by sexual gratification will also be added to the sex offender register.

Furthermore, the Online Safety Bill will also encompass criminalisation of the “deepfake” images for the first time. Deepfakes refer to digitally manipulated explicit images or videos that portray individuals in a false and often pornographic manner.

Philip Dunne commented, saying,

“Today marks a turning point in our fight against image-based online abuse. No individual should have to endure the torment of having their intimate images shared without consent.

“These reforms will not only bring solace to victims but also ensure that future perpetrators receive what they deserve.”