MODERATE THREAT · Consumer Alert
FTC Alert: Online Platforms Must Remove Nonconsensual Intimate Images Within 48 Hours
The FTC is directing consumers to a federal reporting process for online platforms that fail to promptly remove nonconsensual intimate images. Platforms are legally required to provide an accessible way for users to request the removal of intimate photos or videos shared without consent and must remove such content, including known identical copies, within 48 hours of receiving a valid request.
10/9/2026Online platforms
Warning signs
- An online platform does not provide a clear process for reporting nonconsensual intimate images.
- An online platform fails to remove an intimate image or video within 48 hours after a removal request has been submitted.
- The platform does not take reasonable steps to remove copies or reposts of the intimate images.
What you should do
- Report to the Platform: If intimate images of you have been shared online without your permission, your first step is to report the content directly to the platform where it was posted. Look for a "report" option on or near the content itself, or check the platform's help or support pages. If the platform requires you to create an account to make a removal request, this may be a violation.
- Document Your Request: Keep a record of your removal request, including the date and time it was submitted.
- Report to the FTC: If the platform fails to remove the intimate image or video within 48 hours of your request, or if it does not have a functional removal process, report the platform to the FTC at TakeItDown.ftc.gov. Your reports help the FTC investigate platforms that are not complying with the Take It Down Act. Platforms may face civil penalties of up to $53,088 per violation for non-compliance.
- Utilize Hashing Tools: To help prevent the spread of images, consider using tools like StopNCII.org (for adults) or NCMEC's Take It Down service (if the image involves a minor). These services create a digital "fingerprint" of the image, which participating platforms can use to block re-uploads.
- Report the Perpetrator: If someone is threatening to share intimate images or has done so, report them to criminal law enforcement, including the FBI (tips.fbi.gov or 1-800-CALL-FBI). If the images involve a minor, also report through NCMEC's CyberTipline.