In an increasingly digital world, the unauthorized distribution of intimate videos and images has become a pressing concern for many Singaporeans. This form of digital harassment, often referred to as revenge porn or image-based sexual abuse, can have devastating consequences for victims, affecting their personal lives, careers, and mental well-being. As Singapore grapples with this issue, it's crucial to understand the legal landscape, available support services, and preventive measures to protect oneself from such violations of privacy.
The prevalence of technology-facilitated sexual violence in Singapore is alarming. According to a 2023 survey by SG Her Empowerment (SHE), "almost three in five people encountered cyberbullying or sexual harassment online, or know someone who has". This statistic underscores the urgency of addressing this issue and providing support to victims.
The Sexual Assault Care Centre (SACC) of the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) reported that "three in 10 new cases of technology-facilitated sexual violence it received in 2022 involve image-based sexual abuse". This encompasses various behaviors, including the non-consensual creation and sharing of intimate content, as well as using such material for blackmail.
Legal Framework and Protections
Singapore has taken steps to combat this form of digital harassment through various legal mechanisms:
Protection from Harassment Act (POHA)
The POHA addresses both civil and criminal aspects of harassment, including doxxing. Under this act, offenders can face fines of up to S$5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months3. In cases where the victim and the harasser were in an intimate relationship, the court may impose up to twice the maximum punishment.
Penal Code
Section 377BE of the Penal Code specifically criminalizes revenge porn. It's illegal to distribute or threaten to distribute intimate images or recordings without consent3. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines, caning, or a combination of these punishments.
Online Criminal Harms Act
This act provides a mechanism for victims to request the removal of offending content or disable access to websites hosting such material.
Immediate Steps for Victims
If you find yourself in the distressing situation of having your intimate videos leaked online, take the following steps:
Document the evidence: Take screenshots and download the content as proof.
Contact website administrators: Request the removal of the material from the platforms where it has been posted.
File a police report: This is crucial if you wish to pursue criminal prosecution.
Seek legal advice: Consider consulting a lawyer to understand your options for civil action.
Apply for assistance under the Online Criminal Harms Act: This can help in removing or disabling access to the offending content.
Reach out to support organizations: Groups like SHE offer counseling and pro bono legal assistance for victims.
Employment Considerations
One of the most significant concerns for victims is the impact on their professional lives. Here's what you need to know:
Job Interviews
Human resources expert Alvin Aloysius Goh states, "Job seekers' personal lives do not reflect on their professional capabilities and should not influence a company's hiring decisions". You are not required to disclose the leak during job interviews.
Workplace Discrimination
The tripartite guidelines on wrongful dismissal under the Employment Act protect employees from being dismissed without just cause. Lawyer Gerard Quek explains, "It is generally illegal for an employer to dismiss an employee without notice if their intimate content was leaked without their consent, and if there was no deliberate misconduct or moonlighting involved".
Mental Health and Support
The emotional toll of having intimate videos leaked can be severe. Counsellor Diana Ng advises victims to "avoid social media and rely on a supportive network of friends and family". She also recommends seeking help from mental health professionals if the leak is affecting daily life.
For those supporting victims, Ng emphasizes the importance of offering practical help and emotional support without judgment. "Being present for the victim, including providing emotional support, will also help," she says.
Preventive Measures
To minimize the risk of becoming a victim of image-based sexual abuse, consider the following precautions:
Avoid sharing intimate content: Ng advises against sending private content to others, even voluntarily.
Be cautious with personal recordings: Even if not shared, personal recordings can be accidentally leaked or accessed if a device is lost.
Strengthen digital security: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be cautious about who has access to your devices.
Educate yourself: Stay informed about online privacy and the latest cybersecurity measures.
Be aware of sextortion: Understand the risks of sextortion, where someone threatens to share intimate images unless you comply with their demands.
The Future of Digital Protection in Singapore
Recognizing the growing threat of online harassment, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced on October 1, 2024, that a new government agency will be established to provide faster recourse for victims of online harm. New legislation to protect these victims is expected by 2025, signaling Singapore's commitment to addressing this issue comprehensively.
The leak of intimate videos can have far-reaching consequences, but victims in Singapore have legal recourse and support systems available. By understanding your rights, taking immediate action, and seeking appropriate help, you can navigate this challenging situation and work towards recovery.
Remember, the blame lies solely with the perpetrators of these acts, not the victims. As society becomes more aware of the impact of technology-facilitated sexual violence, it's crucial to foster a culture of digital consent and respect for privacy.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the non-consensual sharing of intimate content, don't hesitate to reach out to support services and legal professionals. Together, we can work towards a safer digital environment for all Singaporeans.
