Witnessing non-consensual intimate images being taken
It is not always easy to step in as a bystander. It’s important to believe in yourself and realise that your actions can have a big impact. Your intervention could stop image-based sexual violence, and prevent further harm being caused to the victim. In addition, while your words may bring hope to the victim-survivor, they may equally turn into a secondary trauma. So, think twice before you say anything.
Remind the victim – The victim may not realise that he/she is being secretly filmed. You may remind the victim using eye contacts or non-verbal cues. When possible, ask if the victim needs any help from you.
Assist the victim to leave the scene – You may help the victim leave the scene in a more natural and less obvious way, such as quietly telling him/her that ‘it’s kind of crowded over there, do you (the victim) mind moving towards this side?’
Stop the perpetrator – You could stare right into the perpetrator’s eyes to let him know that their act has been uncovered. If circumstances permit, you may expose the perpetrator and demand the removal of the relevant images/videos.
Block the perpetrator’s camera – To stop the perpetrator from secretly filming the victim, you may block the camera or lens using your body or bag, or stand between the perpetrator and the victim.
Retain evidence for the victim – You may first record how the perpetrator secretly films the victim, and give the record to the victim for evidence. However, in addition to filming the process, please take at least one action discussed above to step in and offer assistance.
