MONTREAL - A new law in Quebec is now in effect, empowering individuals to take action against the non-consensual sharing of intimate images online. This legislation provides victims with the ability to obtain a court order for the removal of such images, a significant step in addressing the issue of digital privacy violations.

Under the existing Criminal Code, it is illegal to publish, text, or share intimate images of someone without their consent. However, many victims have found that the process to remove these images can be slow and complicated. The newly enacted Quebec law streamlines this process, allowing victims to fill out a form either online or at a courthouse. Once submitted, a judge can issue an order mandating the removal of the images or footage in question.

The law also imposes strict penalties for non-compliance. Offenders could face fines of up to $50,000 per day for a first offense, or even serve up to 18 months in jail. This robust framework aims to deter individuals from sharing intimate images without consent and to provide victims with a more effective means of recourse.

Quebec joins British Columbia as the second province in Canada to implement such protective legislation, highlighting a growing recognition of the need to safeguard individuals' rights in the digital age. The law reflects a broader societal commitment to combatting the harmful effects of non-consensual image sharing.