Doxxing and Revenge Porn in Singapore: Your Legal Rights and Remedies

Has someone threatened to share your personal information or intimate images online without your consent?

In Singapore, doxxing and revenge porn are serious offences that can devastate lives:

“But what legal protections do you have, and how can you fight back?”

Doxxing involves the malicious disclosure of your private details, while revenge porn is the non-consensual sharing of intimate images. Both acts can inflict severe emotional distress and damage your reputation. In Singapore, the law provides both criminal penalties and civil remedies for victims.

This article will guide you through your legal rights and the steps you can take if you find yourself a victim of doxxing or revenge porn in Singapore. We’ll explore the legal landscape, helping you understand how to protect yourself (i.e. Protection Orders) and seek justice.

Understanding Doxxing and Revenge Porn

What is Doxxing?

Doxxing is when someone publicly reveals your personal information - like your home address, phone number, or workplace - without your permission. This act can be malicious and is often intended to harass or intimidate. In Singapore, doxxing is addressed under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA), which means you have legal options if you become a victim.

What is Revenge Porn?

Revenge porn involves sharing intimate images or videos of someone without their consent, typically by an ex-partner, to embarrass or harm them. This violation of privacy can lead to severe emotional distress and can impact your personal and professional life. Imagine the betrayal of having someone you trusted expose your private moments to the world.

In Singapore, the Penal Code provides protection whereby committing revenge porn is an offence.

Example Scenario:

Alex, a 28-year-old marketing executive, found his world shattered when his ex-girlfriend Samantha shared intimate photos of him online after their breakup. She created a fake Instagram account in his name and sent the images to his boss and colleagues. Suddenly, Alex faced whispers and uncomfortable glances at work, his professional reputation in tatters. Anxiety attacks and insomnia followed as he grappled with feelings of violation and betrayal.

Desperate for a solution, Alex wondered about his legal options:

”Could he get the images removed?”

”Would Samantha face consequences?”

”How could he protect himself and rebuild his life?”

This scenario highlights the wide-ranging impact of revenge porn on personal, professional, and mental well-being.

Next, we’ll explore Singapore’s legal framework, covering both criminal penalties and civil remedies for victims of doxxing and revenge porn.

Legal Framework in Singapore

In Singapore, the law provides both criminal and civil remedies for victims of doxxing and revenge porn. While criminal prosecution is handled by the state, you have the power to pursue civil action to protect your rights and seek compensation.

Overview of Criminal Aspects

1. Protection from Harassment Act (POHA)

   POHA addresses both civil and criminal aspects of harassment, including doxxing.

   Criminal offences under POHA include:

• Harassment causing distress
• Unlawful stalking
• Doxxing with intent to cause harassment, alarm, or distress

Doxxing Law in Singapore

Under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA), doxxing is illegal in Singapore. Offenders can face fines up to S$5,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months. The Court may also impose up to twice the maximum punishment if the victim and the harasser were in an intimate relationship.

To learn more about the criminal offences covered under POHA, including detailed descriptions and relevant information, read our article here.

Did You Know❓

In 2019, Singapore amended its POHA to specifically include provisions against doxxing, recognizing the growing threat of online harassment.

2. Penal Code

   Criminal offences under Penal Code include:

3. Section 377BE: Revenge Porn

• Criminalises the distribution or threat to distribute intimate images or recordings without consent

2. Section 377BC: Distribution of Voyeuristic Images

• Addresses situations where someone secretly records intimate videos and later distributes them

For example,

If a boyfriend records his girlfriend and posts the video after they break up.

Section 377BE specifically criminalises revenge porn. It’s illegal to distribute or threaten to distribute intimate images or recordings without consent.

⚠️ Sextortion Alert

Sextortion is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images or videos of you unless you pay money or provide more explicit content. If you’re a victim, seek legal help immediately.

Criminal Penalties

For “doxxing” under POHA:

Under Section 3 of POHA:

• First-time offenders can face fines up to S$5,000 and/or imprisonment up to 6 months.
• Repeat offenders may face fines up to S$10,000 and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.

For “revenge porn” under the Penal Code:

1. Under Section 377BE of the Penal Code:

• Offenders can be imprisoned for up to 5 years, fined, and/or caned.
• If the victim is under 14 or if it’s a repeat offence, there is a minimum penalty of imprisonment of up to 5 years. The person would also receive either a fine or caning. .
• Such images or videos include instances where you have been photoshopped.

For distribution of voyeuristic images under the Penal Code:

2. Under Section 377BC of the Penal Code:

• Imprisonment up to 5 years, fines, and/or caning.
• If the victim is under the age of 14, or if it’s a repeat offence, there is a minimum penalty of imprisonment of up to 5 years. The person would also receive either a fine and/or caning.

📵 Bear in mind that it is also illegal to possess such voyeuristic or intimate images or recordings.

While these criminal penalties exist, many victims find that pursuing civil remedies can provide more direct personal relief and compensation.

Disclaimer: Guardian Law focuses on civil law matters. For concerns related to criminal law, it is advisable to consult a criminal law specialist. This article does not constitute legal advice and is for informational purposes only.

Read our full article on Singapore’s POHA Protection Orders (PO) and Family Violence (PPO) here.

⛔ Need Help?

If you’re a victim of sextortion, contact: • Singapore Police Force: 999 • AWARE Helpline: 1800 777 5555 • Guardian Law for legal advice

Civil Remedies for Victims

Victims of doxxing and revenge porn in Singapore have several civil actions available to seek justice and compensation. These remedies focus on protecting your rights and addressing the harm caused by such violations.

Types of Civil Actions Available

1. Protection Orders under POHA

• Purpose: To prevent further harassment or sharing of personal information.
• Process: File an application through the Community Justice and Tribunals System (CJTS), providing evidence such as screenshots or messages. Attend a court hearing where the court can order the offender to stop harmful actions and remove offending content.

💡 Pro Tip!

When applying for a Protection Order, consider including the requirement for internet intermediaries to disable end-user access to the offensive content. This can help prevent further spread of harmful communications, images, or recordings online.

For a step-by-step guide on how to apply, you can refer to the State Courts’ Guide on Protection from Harassment Applications here.

2. Civil Lawsuits

• Purpose: To seek compensation for damages like invasion of privacy, emotional distress, reputational damage, and breach of confidence.
• Process: Consult with a lawyer to assess your case. File an Originating Claim and Statement of Claim with the court. Serve the legal documents to the defendant, proceed through pre-trial procedures, and attend trial if necessary. The court may “award damages” based on the severity of harm.

What consists of “award damages”?

The court may award damages based on the severity of harm, which can include:

• General damages: Compensation for emotional distress and psychological trauma.
• Special damages: For quantifiable financial losses, such as lost wages or therapy costs.
• Aggravated damages: For particularly egregious or harmful conduct by the defendant.
• Non-monetary relief: In some cases, the court may order mandatory apologies or retractions.

The amount awarded will depend on the specific circumstances and the overall impact of the case.

If you believe you are a victim, you can click here to begin filing a civil case against the responsible party.

Urgent Remedies: Expedited Protection Orders

In time-sensitive situations, expedited protection orders provide immediate relief to victims of doxxing and revenge porn.

• Purpose: To immediately stop the sharing of your personal information or intimate images.
• Process:
  • Apply for an expedited protection order, which can be granted quickly as soon as you have applied.
  • Your lawyer will file an urgent application with the court, supported by strong evidence of immediate harm.
  • If granted, the expedited protection order will temporarily halt the offender’s actions until a full hearing can be held.

It’s highly recommended to engage a lawyer, especially in urgent situations, so they can guide you on what to file, how to file, and take the necessary actions to quickly put a halt to such situations.

While pursuing civil remedies in such urgent situations, consider taking these additional steps:

1. File a police report concurrently

   This provides official documentation that may be useful in both civil and potential criminal proceedings.

2. Contact the relevant social media platforms or websites

   Contact social media platforms and websites directly as soon as possible to request content removal. Major platforms have specific procedures for reporting and removing non-consensual intimate images or personal information.

Did you know❓

Major social media platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Google treat requests to remove non-consensual intimate images or personal information with utmost seriousness, particularly in cases of doxxing and revenge porn. These platforms often prioritise such urgent cases, with some responding within 24 hours of reporting. Many even have dedicated teams specialised to handle these sensitive requests efficiently.

3. Document all your actions thoroughly

   This includes taking screenshots of the harmful content and gathering any other relevant evidence. Keep detailed records of your removal requests to platforms. Less is not more in such situations.

📌 Helpful Guide

To understand what evidence to file and how to prepare it for a case in the Protection from Harassment Court, refer to the official guide here provided by the Courts.

These steps can provide additional support for your case and may help expedite the removal of harmful content while legal proceedings are ongoing.

By understanding these civil options and working with experienced legal professionals, you can take action to protect your rights, seek justice, and reclaim your privacy.

Real-World Cases: Doxxing and Revenge Porn in Singapore

Singapore Influencer Doxxing Incident (October 2021)

In October 2021, TikTok influencer Koh Boon Ki created a Telegram group “sg dating adventures” where women shared personal information about men they had dated. The group included a spreadsheet with men’s full names, contact info, and misconduct allegations, sparking controversy and accusations of doxxing. Discussions arose about potential legal consequences under POHA (Protection from Harassment Act).

This case highlights the blurred line between sharing personal experiences and doxxing. It demonstrates how social media can rapidly spread personal information without consent, emphasising the need to understand the legal implications of online sharing, even when intentions aren’t malicious.

High-Profile Revenge Porn Case (December 2023)

In December 2023, a 31-year-old man was sentenced to 30 months and five weeks’ jail with two strokes of the cane for distributing intimate images of his ex-girlfriend and sexual communication with a minor. The offender, who was 29 at the time, had met a 14-year-old girl through an online gaming app and exchanged nude photos during their month-long relationship. After they broke up, he shared the girl’s nude photos and personal details online as revenge, believing she had shared his intimate photos with others, though he had no evidence of this.

This case illustrates the severe legal consequences of revenge porn in Singapore, especially when involving minors, and demonstrates how the country’s laws are applied to combat the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.

Taking Action: When to Seek Help

If you suspect you’re a victim of doxxing or revenge porn, it’s important to take action promptly.

Consider seeking help if:

• Someone is threatening to share your personal information or intimate images without your consent.
• You discover your personal details or images have been shared online without permission.
• You’re facing ongoing harassment related to doxxing or revenge porn.
• The situation is impacting your job, relationships, or mental health.

📌 Important Resource

The Protection from Harassment Court handles various cases related to harassment, including doxxing and revenge porn. To understand if your situation qualifies, you can visit the State Courts website here for detailed information.

Seeking legal advice early on can be helpful, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or need urgent action, such as applying for an Expedited Protection Order (EPO).

What is an EPO?

An Expedited Protection Order (EPO) is a temporary order for urgent protection. It stays in place until the court makes a final decision on the Protection Order or cancels the EPO.

Remember, acting quickly can:

• Help protect your reputation and mental well-being.
• Ensure important evidence is collected and preserved.
• Enable you to take timely legal steps to prevent further harm.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Support services (mentioned below) can offer counselling and immediate assistance. Additionally, speaking with a lawyer can clarify your options moving forward.

If criminal offences are involved, it’s important to report the matter to the police as soon as possible.

🆘 Hotlines and Helplines:

Singapore Police Force: For immediate threats or criminal offences, contact the police at 999 to report the incident and seek protection.

SHECARES@SCWO: Offers support services for victims of online harms, including counselling and legal clinics. For immediate assistance, contact their helpline at 6571 0190 or visit their website here.

AWARE Helpline: Provides support and guidance for individuals facing harassment and abuse, including revenge porn. You can reach their confidential helpline at 1800 777 5555 to discuss your situation and explore your options. For more information, visit AWARE’s website here.

How Guardian Law Can Help

• We offer personalised legal guidance tailored to each case.
• We can assist with documentation and compliance.
• Represents victims throughout the legal process with complete discretion.
• We can provide support for:

1. Filing protection orders
2. Seeking expedited protection orders
3. Pursuing civil lawsuits

At Guardian Law, we specialise in helping victims navigate these challenging situations, ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need. Our team is committed to protecting your rights and privacy every step of the way.

Conclusion

Doxxing and revenge porn are significant issues that require prompt action and legal recourse. Victims in Singapore have access to both criminal and civil remedies to protect their rights. Seeking professional help early can make a substantial difference in navigating these complex cases and achieving justice.

Need Help?

Are you a victim of doxxing or revenge porn seeking legal assistance?

Our team at GuardianLaw is here to assist you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is doxxing?

Doxxing is the malicious disclosure of someone's personal information without their consent.

What is revenge porn?

Revenge porn is the non-consensual sharing of intimate images or videos, typically by an ex-partner.

Is doxxing illegal in Singapore?

Yes, doxxing is illegal under the Protection from Harassment Act (POHA) in Singapore.

What are the penalties for revenge porn in Singapore?

Offenders can face imprisonment of up to 5 years, a fine, caning or a combination of all 3 punishments. /n If the victim is below 14 years old, offenders will be sentenced to imprisonment of up to 5 years. They will also face either a fine or caning. /n Civil suits brought by victims may also provide remedies such as compensation in the form of damages.

Can I get a protection order against someone who doxxed me?

Yes, you can apply for a protection order under POHA through the Community Justice and Tribunals System.

How can I remove intimate images shared without my consent?

Contact the social media platforms or websites directly to request content removal. Many major platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Google have specific procedures for reporting and removing non-consensual intimate images. These platforms often prioritise such urgent cases, with some responding within 24 hours.

What should I do if I'm a victim of doxxing or revenge porn?

Seek legal advice immediately, document evidence, and file a police report.

Can I sue someone for doxxing or revenge porn in Singapore?

Yes, you can pursue civil lawsuits for damages such as emotional distress and reputational harm.

How quickly can I get an expedited protection order to stop someone from sharing my personal information?

In urgent cases, expedited protection orders can be granted upon filing an application.

Can I pursue both criminal and civil actions for doxxing or revenge porn?

Yes, you can report the incident to the police for criminal prosecution while also pursuing civil remedies independently.