Texas enacted § 21.16 in 2015, making it one of the early states to criminalize NCII distribution. The statute covers both intentional and knowing disclosure. Distribution to 10 or more people elevates the charge to a third-degree felony. Texas courts also recognize civil claims for NCII-related harm. The TAKE IT DOWN Act's 48-hour removal obligation applies to all covered platforms regardless of the state criminal process timeline. ScanErase's scan finds every platform hosting your images so you can file TAKE IT DOWN Act notices yourself, and your exposure report documents Texas criminal and civil proceedings.

What to do now: removal and legal steps

  1. Upload your face photo for a full scan ScanErase searches 2.4 billion indexed face embeddings across 200+ platforms.
  2. Identify all hosting locations Private dashboard shows all confirmed URLs.
  3. Send federal removal notices TAKE IT DOWN Act 223a notices with 48-hour deadlines.
  4. Document for Texas criminal complaint Your exposure report supports a Texas § 21.16 criminal complaint.
  5. Consider Texas civil action Your exposure report supports civil damages claims in Texas courts.

Frequently asked questions

What are the penalties under Texas § 21.16?

Standard offense is a state jail felony (180 days to 2 years). Distribution to 10 or more people is a third-degree felony (2-10 years). Enhanced penalties apply for minors.

Where do I file a Texas § 21.16 criminal complaint?

File with your local police department or county sheriff. The complaint goes to the county district attorney for prosecution.

Other state legal guides