Increased reports of leaked private photos and videos - RVIPF
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has disclosed that there has been an increase in reports received of the circulation of intimate photos or videos, particularly among young people.
As a result of this, the RVIPF’s Family & Juvenile Unit said it is strongly advising persons against taking such photos or participating in such videos.
According to Head of the Unit, Inspector John Antoine, “while the perpetrator of such an act — who is usually a former companion or friend — can be charged for violation of privacy, the offensive images or videos may remain on the internet and in circulation indefinitely.”
The Inspector said while the Force will investigate each reported case, the harsh reality is that the circulation of these images may never be stopped once they are released.
Antoine said recovery from this tragic mistake is difficult.
“My strong advice is to choose never to record or be a participant in a photo or recording that would likely bring embarrassment or shame if it was to be made public,” he added.
Under the Cyber Crime Act 2019, a person charged with violation of privacy by capturing, publishing or transmitting an image of a private area of another person can be fined up to $200,000 or serve a term of seven years upon conviction.
According to Head of the Unit, Inspector John Antoine, “while the perpetrator of such an act — who is usually a former companion or friend — can be charged for violation of privacy, the offensive images or videos may remain on the internet and in circulation indefinitely.”
The Inspector said while the Force will investigate each reported case, the harsh reality is that the circulation of these images may never be stopped once they are released.
Antoine said recovery from this tragic mistake is difficult.
“My strong advice is to choose never to record or be a participant in a photo or recording that would likely bring embarrassment or shame if it was to be made public,” he added.
Under the Cyber Crime Act 2019, a person charged with violation of privacy by capturing, publishing or transmitting an image of a private area of another person can be fined up to $200,000 or serve a term of seven years upon conviction.
