Failure to Enforce Image Deletion in Revenge Porn Cases Leaves Victims at Risk

Court orders to delete explicit images are rare, leaving offenders with access to harmful content and victims in fear.

A recent analysis has revealed that perpetrators of 'revenge porn' offenses are often allowed to retain explicit images of their victims, due to the failure of prosecutors and courts to enforce image deletion orders.

Of 98 cases concluded in magistrates' courts in England and Wales, only three resulted in a deprivation order, which would require offenders to hand over devices and delete illicit images.

This stands in contrast to other offenses, such as the possession of indecent images of children, where such orders are routinely applied.

The Crown Prosecution Service acknowledged the need for improvement in the handling of these cases, but campaigners argue that victims are being left in a constant state of fear.

Calls for urgent changes include forcing the destruction of images from all platforms, including cloud storage and social media, and providing clearer guidance for prosecutors and the judiciary.

Victims of image-based abuse also argue for laws that allow them to request the deletion of harmful content without going through the criminal process.