Reclaiming Your Power: Your Intimate Images Were Shared Without Your Consent

You Can Stop It and You Can Sue.

The non-consensual sharing of intimate images is not just a betrayal of trust, it is illegal and in BC, it gives rise to immediate court-ordered remedies and a clear right to compensation.

If someone has shared your intimate images without your consent, you do not have to wait, and you do not have to tolerate ongoing harm. The law allows you to act quickly, force removal, and pursue damages. The governing law is the Intimate Images Protection Act, and it is designed to put control back in your hands.

The Law Is on Your Side

The Act creates a direct civil cause of action where a person shares, distributes, or even threatens to distribute an intimate image without consent.

It applies broadly:
•Images do not need to show your face
•Images can include altered or AI generated content (deepfakes)
•Consent can be withdrawn at any time

If the image was shared after consent was withdrawn or without consent at all, then the person responsible can be held legally accountable and we can help. One of the first things we can help you with is the immediate removal of the images

•Deletion of all copies in the defendant’s possession or control
•A complete prohibition on further sharing
•Steps to remove the content from search engines and third party platforms

In many cases, these orders can be obtained without delay and, where necessary, without advance notice to the person responsible.

You Can Sue for Damages

The Act goes further than simply stopping the harm. It gives you the right to seek monetary compensation.

You can recover damages for:
•Emotional distress
•Loss of dignity and privacy
•Reputational harm
•Ongoing psychological impact

Critically, you do not need to prove financial loss. The law recognizes that this kind of violation is inherently harmful.

The courts have jurisdiction to award damages under this process, including aggravated and punitive damages where the conduct is particularly egregious. More serious claims can also be advanced through the Supreme Court of British Columbia.

Civil vs Criminal: You Control the Process

The non-consensual distribution of intimate images is also a criminal offence under the Criminal Code of Canada. If this has happened to you, you absolutely should report it to your local police.

However, a civil claim under the Intimate Images Protection Act offers some advantages:
•Often faster results
•Greater control over the process
•A primary focus on removing the images immediately
•Compensation

Delay only benefits the person who shared the images. Every day that passes increases the risk of further dissemination. Early legal intervention can:
•Contain and remove the images
•Preserve evidence
•Identify responsible parties
•Maximize your entitlement to damages

We Act Quickly and Decisively

If your intimate images have been shared without your consent, you have enforceable rights and we move quickly to protect them.

We pursue:
•Immediate protection orders
•Aggressive takedown strategies
•Claims for damages, including punitive awards
•Court action where necessary

You are not powerless in this situation. The law is clear, and it is enforceable.

If you are looking for guidance in this matter our experienced Litigation Law team can guide you through every step of the process. Contact us for your initial consult.

This blog post provides general information and is not intended as legal advice. Laws change frequently; please contact DuMoulin Boskovich LLP for advice specific to your situation.