Sextortion and intimate image abuse are both forms of technology-facilitated sexual abuse, but they differ in how they occur, the perpetrator’s intent, and the nature of the abuse. Both violate a person's sexual autonomy and privacy, and can lead to trauma, anxiety, shame, depression, and social withdrawal. The abusive acts usually involve digital platforms, such as messaging apps, social media, or cloud storage. In Scotland, such actions may constitute criminal offences, resulting in fines or prison sentences. Relevant legal statutes may include the Abusive Behaviour and Sexual Harm (Scotland) Act 2016, and the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act 2009.
What is sextortion? ‘Sextortion’ refers to a specific type of cyber enabled crime in which victims are lured into performing sexual acts in front of their webcam, usually after befriending them on a social media platform. Unbeknown to victims, their actions are recorded by criminals who then use the video footage in an attempt to blackmail them. Generally, criminals request money (in some instances Bitcoin) and if demands are not met, these perpetrators threaten to upload the recordings to the internet or send them to the victims’ friends and family. The attempt to blackmail is designed to play on people’s emotions so that they will behave in a way which is out of character.
What is intimate image abuse?
Intimate image abuse is when someone shares or threatens to share private, sexual, or nude images or videos of another person without their consent. This type of abuse is often labelled "revenge porn", but this term can be misleading. These acts are usually about power, control, and humiliation, rather than revenge.
What Counts as an Intimate Image?
Covered images include:
- Photos or videos of sexual acts
- Genitals, buttocks, or breasts shown in private
- Images stored digitally or physically (phones, laptops, printouts, etc.)
- Edited or manipulated versions of such content
Not covered:
- Text-only messages or emails
- Public nudity like streaking or protests