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MODERATE THREAT · Consumer Protection

Reporting Platforms for Failure to Remove Nonconsensual Intimate Images

Under the federal TAKE IT DOWN Act, online platforms are legally required to provide a clear process for users to request the removal of nonconsensual intimate images and must remove such content within 48 hours of a valid request.

10/9/2026Online social media platformsMobile applicationsAny website identified as a 'covered platform' under the TAKE IT DOWN Act

Warning signs

  • A platform lacks a clear or accessible process for reporting nonconsensual intimate images.
  • A platform fails to respond to a formal takedown request within 48 hours.
  • A platform's reporting mechanism for intimate imagery is broken or non-functional.
  • Intimate images or videos remain visible on a platform after a valid removal request has been submitted.

What you should do

  • Report the non-compliant platform to the FTC at TakeItDown.ftc.gov.
  • Provide the name of the platform and specific details regarding where the image was posted when filing your report.
  • Utilize the resources available at TakeItDown.ftc.gov to connect with support organizations.
  • Consider reporting the individual who posted the images to local law enforcement.
The TAKE IT DOWN Act, signed into law on May 19, 2025, mandates that 'covered platforms' implement a notice-and-removal process for nonconsensual intimate imagery, including deepfakes and other digital forgeries. Platforms that fail to provide a removal mechanism, have a broken process, or do not remove the content within 48 hours of a valid request are in violation of the law. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is authorized to enforce these requirements, and platforms found in violation may face civil penalties of up to $53,088 per violation. Victims can report non-compliant platforms directly to the FTC via their dedicated portal.

Sources

https://www.congress.gov/crs-product/LSB11314http://ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2026/05/ftc-begins-enforcing-take-it-down-acthttps://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2026/09/did-online-platform-fail-quickly-take-down-your-intimate-images-report-it-ftchttps://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2026/09/how-report-platform-doesnt-take-down-your-intimate-images