The legal framework
The Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020, known as Coco's Law, created two offences: distributing intimate images without consent and with intent to cause harm, and the broader offence of recording or distributing an intimate image without consent, regardless of intent. Beyond that, the constitutional right to privacy and the GDPR apply to identifiable images.
As a member state of the European Union, a photograph of a person is also personal data under the GDPR here, and the removal of unlawful content follows the mechanism of Regulation (EU) 2022/2065 on digital services.
Key points
| Statute | Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020 |
|---|---|
| Two offences | One requiring intent to harm, one not requiring it at all |
| Anonymity | The victim is entitled to anonymity in proceedings |
| Data protection | An identifiable image is personal data under the GDPR |
| Online safety | Coimisiún na Meán supervises platforms and can require removal |
| Public places | Photography in public is generally lawful |
| Online safety code | Regulated platforms must provide complaint mechanisms |
| Both offences | One requires intent to harm; the other does not |
In practice
- Save the evidence before reporting: screenshots with the URL and date, the account name, and any messages.
- Use the platform's own reporting form first — it is the fastest route to removal — then report to the authority.
- Use StopNCII.org or Take It Down for intimate images: they create a digital fingerprint so participating platforms can block re-uploads without you sending the image anywhere.
- Do not pay a person demanding money to delete an image: payment almost always leads to further demands.
- Report through Hotline.ie for content hosted anywhere: it works with international partners.
Recent changes
Coimisiún na Meán, Ireland's online safety regulator, now has statutory powers over platforms, including individual complaints mechanisms.
Where to go
- An Garda Síochána, local station.
- Hotline.ie for reporting illegal content.
- Coimisiún na Meán.
Worth knowing
The second offence under Coco's Law does not require proof that the person wanted to hurt you: the absence of your consent is enough. That makes it far easier to prosecute. The offence that does not require intent is the one to rely on. Prosecutors need only prove the absence of consent.
Official sources and links
- Citizens Information — official plain-language guide to rights and entitlements
- Irish Statute Book — legislation as enacted