Manitoba strengthens laws against threats to share intimate images
Manitoba is set to bolster its laws against the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. The proposed changes would make it illegal to threaten to distribute such images, even if no actual sharing takes place. The government aims to provide better protection for victims and hold websites accountable for failing to remove harmful content.
The existing law, expanded last year under then-minister Heather Stefanson, already covers real and computer-generated images, including deepfakes. It allows victims to sue alleged perpetrators and seek the removal or destruction of shared images. A key feature is the reverse onus clause, which presumes images were shared without consent unless the accused proves they had reasonable grounds to believe otherwise.
The expanded law would give victims stronger legal tools to fight back against both the sharing and threats of sharing intimate images. It also increases pressure on online platforms to enforce removals. If passed, the changes will build on Manitoba’s existing protections, which already cover deepfakes and provide avenues for legal action.
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