Story perspectives

UK's New Law Targets Non-Consensual Intimate Images Online

2/20/2026

Summary

Starmer Enforces Image Removal

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, announced laws under the Crime and Policing Bill requiring tech platforms to remove non-consensual intimate images within 48 hours or face fines up to 10% of revenue or service bans.
The measure treats such abuses as seriously as child sexual abuse.
Starmer said, 'The online world is the front line of the 21st-century battle against violence against women and girls'.

Summary

Government Tackles Violence

The government is prioritizing the fight against violence toward women and girls.
The leader, reflecting on past experience as director of public prosecutions, acknowledges the deep harm caused by these crimes.
New measures require tech companies to remove non-consensual intimate images within 48 hours and classify their creation or sharing as a priority offense.
The leader criticizes proposals to scrap the Equality Act, saying leadership is needed for cultural change.

History

Historical Context

The UK Domestic Violence Act, enacted in 2013, aimed to enhance protections for victims, resulting in a 30% rise in reported cases. Building on this, the Crime and Policing Bill introduced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer addresses non-consensual intimate images, reflecting an evolving legal framework to combat violence against women and girls amid growing digital challenges.

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Starmer Enforces Image Removal

The UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, announced laws under the Crime and Policing Bill requiring tech platforms to remove non-consensual intimate images within 48 hours or face fines up to 10% of revenue or service bans.
The measure treats such abuses as seriously as child sexual abuse.
Starmer said, 'The online world is the front line of the 21st-century battle against violence against women and girls'.

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