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About Abuse

Abuse Using Technology

Updated: September 30, 2024

How can an abuser use images to harass and harm me?

An abuser could use nude or sexual images of you as a way to gain and keep power and control over you. S/he may do this by:

sharing intimate images that you sent;
taking photos or videos of you without your consent; or
threatening to share images as a way to scare, harass, control, or blackmail you.

These actions can be part of a pattern of domestic abuse and there are laws that may address this type of behavior. You may choose to report it to the police to see if it qualifies as a crime in your state, file for a restraining order, or even sue the abuser in civil court for money damages.

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