Illegal use of images and blackmail

Thank you for reaching out. The circumstances you describe raise serious legal and safety concerns, including unlawful distribution of images, threats, harassment, and potential cross-border issues. Because of the sensitive nature of these matters and to protect your privacy, I’m unable to address details in this forum. Please contact me directly so we can discuss this confidentially and determine the appropriate next steps.

I am sorry to hear you are experiencing this. Thank you for fighting back. You have several ways to stop the non‑consensual use of your images and to hold the perpetrators accountable. Under federal law (18 U.S.C. § 2261A) the distribution of your pictures for profit is a crime—file a complaint (I suggest via someone like us) with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) or the nearest U.S. embassy if you are abroad, and request an investigation that can lead to criminal charges, seizure of the offending sites, and restitution. In addition, most states have “revenge‑porn” statutes that allows civil actions for invasion of privacy, intentional infliction of emotional distress, defamation, and punitive damages; a civil suit can also seek an injunction forcing the images to be removed. If the images depict a minor, the conduct falls under the much harsher child‑pornography statutes (18 U.S.C. § 2252A). You can also obtain restraining or protective orders to stop further threats and pursue cyber‑stalking claims, and if they fail to protect you after you reported the harassment you may have another case.

Preserve every piece of evidence (screenshots, URLs, download logs, emails, text messages, and any threats) and store them securely offline. File an IC3 complaint and a local police report, then request a case number for follow‑up. Draft a cease‑and‑desist letter, evaluate a civil damages claim, and help you obtain an injunction. If you feel unsafe, apply for a temporary restraining order in the harasser’s jurisdiction (or a federal protective order for interstate cases). Finally, be careful if you reach out to victim‑support assistance as many are traps. If you need help identifying an attorney, preparing the complaints, or coordinating with law‑enforcement, let us know—we’re ready to guide you through each step.

 

Sincerely,

Ascendence International Consulting