Predators who take intimate images of their victims without their knowledge or install cameras to do so could face up to two years in prison, under plans drawn up by the Labor Party.
Ministers also confirmed plans to create a new offense for those who create sexually explicit deepfake images.
Although sharing or threatening to share an intimate image without consent is already an offense, it is only an offense to take an image without consent in certain circumstances, such as wearing a high skirt.
Under the new offenses, anyone taking an intimate image without consent could face up to two years in detention, authorities said. Those who install equipment that allows themselves or someone else to take intimate images without consent also face up to two years in prison.
The government will also introduce a new offence, meaning perpetrators could be charged for creating and sharing hyper-realistic images.
The coalition of feminist organizations End Violence Against Women (EVAW) cautiously welcomed the commitment, but urged ministers to clarify when the law will be introduced.
Rebecca Hitchen, head of policy and campaigns at EVAW, said: “We have not yet seen a timetable for the offense or details of the new law. The Government must deliver on its commitments to survivors – delaying action will only put women and girls at risk. »
Victims Minister Alex Davies-Jones said: “It is unacceptable that one in three women have been victims of online abuse. This humiliating and repugnant form of chauvinism must not become normalized.”
The new offenses will be included in the Crime and Policing Bill, which is expected to be submitted to Parliament in the spring. Sharing or threatening to share intimate images, including deepfakes, is already an offense under the Sexual Offenses Act 2003.
The Government will repeal two existing voyeurism offenses relating to recording a person engaging in a private act and recording an image under a person’s clothing.
They will be replaced by new offenses including:
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Taking or recording an intimate photograph or film without consent.
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Taking or recording an intimate photograph or film without consent and with intent to cause alarm, distress or humiliation.
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Taking or recording an intimate photograph or film without consent or reasonable belief therein, and for the purpose of sexual gratification of oneself or others.
Jess Davies, a TV presenter and campaigner whose former boyfriend took nude photos of her without her consent, has welcomed the move. “Intimate image abuse is a national emergency that causes significant and lasting harm to women and girls who face a complete loss of control over their digital footprint, due to online misogyny.
“Women should not have to accept sexual harassment and abuse as a normal part of their lives online,” she said.
theguardian