Why Snapchat content spreads quickly

Snaps and Stories self destruct, which gives the false impression of ephemerality. Recipients can screen record before content expires, and these recordings are then distributed elsewhere as if the original was permanent.

Argentina legal framework

Ley 27.736 of 2023 amending Ley 26.485 to recognise digital and telematic violence including intimate image distribution, plus provincial implementations. Civil and administrative under Ley 26.485 as amended. Criminal penalties under provincial codes vary, generally 6 months to 4 years.

The civil erasure right under Ley 25.326 de Protección de Datos Personales (right of suppression) is enforceable against Snapchat regardless of where Snapchat processes the data, where the data subject is in Argentina.

Snapchat removal route

Snapchat accepts NCII reports through its in app reporting flow. The Spotlight and Public Profile reporting categories are processed faster than Story or Snap report categories.

Snap Inc is a covered platform under 47 USC 223a. The platform's age skew toward minors means NCMEC and FBI involvement for any underage related case substantially accelerates platform response.

Evidence preservation specific to Snapchat

Snap content is ephemeral, so capture immediately. Snapchat retains server side copies and metadata for 30 days which supports law enforcement subpoenas through the Snapchat Law Enforcement Operations team.

Five step removal process

  1. 1

    Capture evidence from Snapchat

    Snap content is ephemeral, so capture immediately. Snapchat retains server side copies and metadata for 30 days which supports law enforcement subpoenas through the Snapchat Law Enforcement Operations team.

  2. 2

    File Ley 27.736 (Ley Olimpia Argentina) plus provincial criminal codes criminal complaint

    Report to local police or national cybercrime unit. Línea 144 can assist.

  3. 3

    Submit Ley 25.326 de Protección de Datos Personales (right of suppression) erasure request to Snapchat

    Snapchat accepts NCII reports through its in app reporting flow. The Spotlight and Public Profile reporting categories are processed faster than Story or Snap report categories. The request must identify the URLs and cite the legal basis. AAIP accepts complaints for non compliance.

  4. 4

    Run a biometric scan to find every other hosting location

    Content rarely stays on one platform. ScanErase identifies every current location in a single scan including mirrored copies and AI generated variants of the same image.

  5. 5

    Dispatch parallel TAKE IT DOWN Act notice to Snapchat

    Snapchat is a covered platform with a 48 hour federal removal obligation. ScanErase files the notice within 5 minutes of authorisation.

Frequently asked questions

Can Snapchat be required to remove intimate images of a Argentina resident?

Yes. Ley 25.326 de Protección de Datos Personales (right of suppression) gives any data subject in Argentina the right to require erasure. Snapchat operates a dedicated NCII removal portal that processes these requests. Where Snapchat is also subject to US jurisdiction, the TAKE IT DOWN Act adds a 48 hour federal obligation.

What is the criminal exposure of the person who posted to Snapchat from Argentina?

Ley 27.736 of 2023 amending Ley 26.485 to recognise digital and telematic violence including intimate image distribution, plus provincial implementations. Civil and administrative under Ley 26.485 as amended. Criminal penalties under provincial codes vary, generally 6 months to 4 years.

How does Snapchat verify a Argentina erasure request?

Snapchat accepts NCII reports through its in app reporting flow. The Spotlight and Public Profile reporting categories are processed faster than Story or Snap report categories. AAIP can be petitioned if Snapchat fails to act within the statutory window.

What evidence should I capture from Snapchat?

Snap content is ephemeral, so capture immediately. Snapchat retains server side copies and metadata for 30 days which supports law enforcement subpoenas through the Snapchat Law Enforcement Operations team.

Related guides