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We are more connected than ever before which is great, unless you find yourself a victim of imaged based abuse, IBA.
You may be unfamiliar with the term 'image based abuse' but perhaps you've heard of 'revenge porn'?
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Essentially what it involves is the threat to share (or actual sharing of) intimate images or photos of someone without their consent.
These images generally show a person's genital area, breasts (if the person identifies as female, transgender or intersex), private activities including someone getting undressed, using the bathroom or engaging in sexual activity.
Imaged based abuse includes behaviours such as 'up-skirting' and 'down-blousing' and involves images that were taken with and without the subject's consent.
Footage or images may also be digitally altered using Photoshop and other computer software.
The term 'revenge porn' is often used by the media as it is common for this activity to occur in the context of a relationship split where one party aims to publicly humiliate the other.
However, in light of the victim-blaming nature of this term and the fact that it does not adequately capture the full nature and cause of this abuse, the Australian government refers to the behaviour more broadly as image based abuse.
Many cases of this abuse are never about 'revenge' nor are the images 'porn'.
Image based abuse is a criminal offence under Australian law.
It is a form of domestic violence which is well recognised in both civil and criminal law.
If you need support with this type of abuse information is available on the Office of the eSafety Commissioner website.
You can also speak with your local police or a lawyer for advice and support.
Erica Rundle
Erica is a Women's Health Counsellor in private practice in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. You can read more about her work at www.shecounselling.com.au. She can be contacted at info@shecounselling.com.au or on 0412 707 242.
