My ex-boyfriend is threatening to share my private photos on Instagram if I don't talk to him, can I file a case?
KA Asked by Kavita Joshi from India
Quick Answer
This is a serious offence and you have strong legal protection. Section 66E of the Information Technology Act, 2000 punishes violation of privacy by capturing, publishing or transmitting images of a private area without consent with up to three years imprisonment and fine.
Detailed Legal Analysis
This is a serious offence and you have strong legal protection. Section 66E of the Information Technology Act, 2000 punishes violation of privacy by capturing, publishing or transmitting images of a private area without consent with up to three years imprisonment and fine.
Section 354C IPC also makes voyeurism a punishable offence, and Section 67B of the IT Act specifically protects against publishing sexually explicit material involving a person without consent. File an FIR immediately at the local police station or on cybercrime.gov.in, and the police can act suo motu since this is a cognisable offence.
You can also report the account to Instagram for removal of intimate images without consent. The Supreme Court in Puttaswamy v.
Union of India (2017) has recognised privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21, strengthening your case.
Legal Provisions Referenced
Verify the current statutory text at India Code (the official repository of Indian legislation) or the Legislative Department. This answer is general legal information, not advice on your specific matter.
Disclaimer: AI-generated for educational purposes only. Does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified practitioner.