Revenge sharing of intimate images after a breakup in Mexico

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 Mexico

Ley Olimpia (federal reform of 2021 to the Código Penal Federal article 199 Octies and the General Law of Women's Access to a Life Free of Violence), plus state level implementations. From 3 to 6 years imprisonment plus fine of 500 to 1000 days minimum wage units under federal article 199 Octies. State penalties vary.

Mexico's Ley Olimpia, named for activist Olimpia Coral Melo, began as a Puebla state law in 2018 and became federal in 2021. All 32 Mexican states now criminalise digital violence including non consensual distribution of intimate content.

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 Ley Olimpia criminal complaint

   Report to local police or the national cybercrime unit. Frente Nacional para la Sororidad can assist.

3. 3

   Submit an erasure request under Ley Federal de Protección de Datos Personales en Posesión de los Particulares (rights of access, rectification, cancellation, opposition)

   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. INAI 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

• Ley Olimpia (federal reform of 2021 to the Código Penal Federal article 199 Octies and the General Law of Women's Access to a Life Free of Violence), plus state level implementations
• Ley Federal de Protección de Datos Personales en Posesión de los Particulares (rights of access, rectification, cancellation, opposition)
• 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