Victims of non-consensual intimate image sharing in Quebec now have a powerful new weapon in their arsenal. A recently enacted law provides a streamlined process to obtain court orders for the rapid removal of such images from online platforms.

While sharing intimate images without consent is already a crime under the Canadian Criminal Code, the reality for victims has often been slow and frustrating. Getting these images taken down could take significant time and effort.

This new legislation changes that. Victims can now complete a simple online form or submit a request at a courthouse to initiate the process. A judge will then review the request and issue an order mandating the removal of the offending images or videos.

The law also includes significant deterrents for non-compliance. Failure to remove the images as ordered can result in hefty fines—up to $50,000 per day for a first offense—or even 18 months imprisonment. This significant penalty aims to swiftly and effectively protect victims and enforce the removal of these deeply harmful materials.

This new law represents a significant step forward in protecting victims’ rights and ensuring accountability for those who perpetrate this invasive and damaging form of online abuse.