Italy strengthens protections against digital violence and revenge porn

In Italy, legal frameworks and regional initiatives are addressing the rise of digital violence, including revenge porn, online blackmail, and hate speech. Under Italian criminal law, the unauthorized distribution or threat of distributing sexually explicit images is a punishable offense aimed at protecting personal privacy and dignity.

Victims can seek assistance through the Garante per la protezione dei dati personali, which provides a dedicated channel for reporting such cases and requesting the removal of harmful content from digital platforms.

In the Molise region, regional councilor Alessandra Salvatore has introduced a support initiative to assist victims of online harassment and insults. The program, held at the Samnium Innovation Hub in Campobasso, involves a pool of lawyers who evaluate reported cases via email. This legal team assesses whether online behaviors constitute civil wrongs or criminal offenses, providing guidance on potential actions such as formal notices or claims for damages.