Police warn of a rise in 'revenge porn' offences in the Cotswolds
Main article content
Over the past week police have received numerous reports about a website where private or intimate images of females from the Cotswolds have been posted online without their consent.
Social media profile photos have also been shared on the site, with requests for sexual or naked images to be provided of them and uploaded online.
Gloucestershire Constabulary is reminding the public that sharing private sexual images or films of others, which is sometimes referred to as ‘revenge porn’, without their consent is a criminal offence.
This type of crime includes sharing material both online and offline, this can be uploading images to the internet and social media channels, sharing by text and email, and showing someone a physical or electronic image or video.
Some victims are reluctant to report this crime to the police as they feel ashamed or embarrassed, but if you've experienced image-based sexual abuse, it’s important to remember that you’re not to blame – only the offender is responsible for this crime taking place.
If you or someone you know has been affected by image based sexual violence please contact Gloucestershire Constabulary on 101. You can also contact the Revenge Porn Helpline who can help with getting private sexual images taken offline by emailing them on [email protected]
Advice for staying safe online:
-Check your privacy settings regularly
-Don’t share personal information, such as contact details, online
-Think carefully before you share any sexual images with anyone, including your partner