TL;DR: The FTC says that if someone shares an intimate photo or video of you online without permission, the law requires platforms to give you an easy way to request removal and to take it down within 48 hours. If a platform fails to act, you can report it at TakeItDown.ftc.gov. This is also relevant to sextortion, where threats to share images are used to extort money.
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On September 17, 2026 the FTC reminded people of a right that many do not know exists. Its September 10 alert also covers images that were digitally altered or created without your consent. You have rights, and online platforms have obligations.
What the rule says, in plain terms
- Platforms must give you an easy way to submit a takedown request.
- They are expected to remove the content within 48 hours of a request.
- If they do not, you can report the platform to the FTC at TakeItDown.ftc.gov.
Steps to take if this happens to you
- Do not panic and do not pay. Payment rarely ends the threat and often leads to more demands.
- Save evidence: screenshots of the post, the profile and any messages, with dates. Do this before requesting removal.
- Submit a takedown request on each platform where the content appears, then report failures to the FTC.
- Tighten your accounts. Change passwords, turn on two-factor authentication and review who can see your posts.
- Talk to someone you trust or a support organisation. This is not your fault.
When it is sextortion
Scammers sometimes threaten to share images to demand money, even when they have none. Our report on sextortion scams rising in New Zealand explains how the pressure works. Blocking the account, reporting it and securing your accounts is the safer path.
Reduce what strangers can learn about you
Scammers often pair a threat with personal details to sound convincing. Learn how details get pieced together in how scammers build a convincing profile of you, and lock down your accounts with our email account hacked guide if a breach was involved.
FAQs
How fast must a platform remove intimate images?
The FTC says the law requires platforms to take content down within 48 hours of a valid request.
What if the platform does not remove the image?
You can report the platform to the FTC at TakeItDown.ftc.gov.
Should I pay someone threatening to share my images?
No. Payment rarely ends the threat. Keep evidence, block the sender, report it and seek support.
Before scammers use your details, see them first: check what is already public about you.
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