It is the age of the internet and along with the way we communicate, even intimacy, sex and relationships and sexual interactions have taken a different route- the route of technology. People in long-distance relationships or those dating online through apps like Tinder, Bumble, etc. are connecting with each other through social media platforms or messaging apps like Whatsapp.
Indulging online in consensual sex and relationships and flirtatious chats is now the new age of dating and nightstands. Sexting and video chats are becoming more and more common and as long as it is informed and consensual it is the individual’s decision to make. However, when not knowing the person at the other end, while dating a stranger, or when relationships go sour, these can often backfire taking the form of blackmail or revenge porn. Not to forget data hacks or mobile phone thefts where information can get into the wrong hands. Therefore it is very important to always be careful when indulging in such acts, no matter how trustworthy or safe things may seem at that moment.
Here are some points to help you indulge in safe online conversations while exchanging intimate pictures:
1. The decision is yours to make so ask yourself if you are completely comfortable doing this and that you won’t regret it later.
2. If you have met your partner recently then you must always think twice before sharing any intimate pictures. Even in long-term relationships, make sure you trust your partner fully, know about his past and have certain mutual friends in order to do a character check before sharing anything.
3. If at any point in time you feel that you are being pressured or emotionally guilt-tripped into sharing things, and it is making you uncomfortable, then this is certainly a red flag.
4. It is always better to crop your face out of intimate pictures, hide any prominent scars or identification marks and any obvious background that may reveal your identity. You can always use a filter and blur the background. Also, make sure your location is turned off before sending.
Two adults indulging in informed consensual sex is healthy as long as the trust is there equally on both sides. However, if such a situation is to arise where your pictures are misused by your partner, found on porn sites, or are being used to blackmail you, there are laws that can help to protect you.
Cyber Law
IT Act for cyber harassment
Information Technology Act 2000 says that If any person is publishing or sending any salacious material in the form of electronic media is to be charged under section 67 of the Act.
Section 499 of the IPC, protects victims against harassment through remarks on social media or by posting obscene photographs. Even Section 507 of the IPC, which addresses any individual whose intention is to intimidate women or threaten them anonymously — online could help by awarding the perpetrator a jail time of two years.
Section 500 of the Indian Penal Code that deals with defamation, can be applied in case of cyberstalking in India and criminalizes publishing any false statement against a person or harming the person’s reputation and provides punishment for any such act with imprisonment up to 2 years, fine or both.
www.cybercrime.gov.in is set up by the Ministry of Home affairs. This portal caters to complaints pertaining to cybercrimes only with a special focus on cyber crimes against women and children.
You can also visit www.cyberpolice.nic.in to lodge a complaint.