Revenge sharing of intimate images after a breakup in Italy

Why this happens

Post breakup distribution typically occurs within the first 90 days after the relationship ends. The distribution is rarely random and often involves coordinated posting across multiple platforms.

Many ex partners attach identifying information including the victim's name, employer, school, or contact details. This identifying context creates additional civil claims beyond the NCII statutes.

Legal framework in Italy

Codice penale articolo 612-ter (diffusione illecita di immagini o video sessualmente espliciti). From 1 to 6 years imprisonment plus €5,000 to €15,000 fine. Aggravated where the perpetrator is a current or former partner.

Italy's Codice Rosso reform of 2019 created article 612-ter, one of Europe's most prescriptive NCII statutes. The Garante Privacy operates a unique pre-distribution channel that allows victims to submit perceptual hashes of intimate content to block uploads on participating platforms before publication occurs.

Evidence to preserve

• Full page screenshot of every URL where the content appears, including any attached identifying information
• The full communication history with the ex partner, especially any threats made before the distribution
• The dates of the breakup and the first appearance of the content online
• Any witnesses to the relationship who can attest to the original consent context for the images

Do not: Do not communicate with the ex partner during the active distribution period. Communications can be edited and selectively shared to suggest reconciliation or consent. All communication should be through counsel.

Five step removal process

1. 1

   Preserve all evidence first

   Full page screenshot of every URL where the content appears, including any attached identifying information. The full communication history with the ex partner, especially any threats made before the distribution.

2. 2

   File the Article 612-ter Codice penale criminal complaint

   Report to local police or the national cybercrime unit. Garante Privacy revenge porn fast track can assist.

3. 3

   Submit an erasure request under GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Codice Privacy

   Each major platform has a designated data protection contact. The request must cite the legal basis and identify the URLs. The platform has 30 days to respond. Garante Privacy accepts complaints for non compliance.

4. 4

   Run a biometric scan to find every additional copy

   Content posted to one platform is rarely confined to one platform. ScanErase identifies every current hosting location in a single scan, including mirror copies and AI generated variants.

5. 5

   File TAKE IT DOWN Act notices for covered platforms

   Use your scan report to file the federal 48 hour notice yourself, in parallel with your domestic rights. The two regimes are cumulative, not exclusive.

Statutory citations to include in your complaint

• Codice penale articolo 612-ter (diffusione illecita di immagini o video sessualmente espliciti)
• GDPR Article 17 (right to erasure) plus Codice Privacy
• US TAKE IT DOWN Act for any covered platform
• State revenge porn statutes which exist in 48 states with criminal penalties
• Civil claims for intentional infliction of emotional distress and statutory damages where state law provides