PubPol_Federal_TakeitDownAct

Actions Taken 355

End the Spread of IBSA Online: Tell Your Senators to Support the Take it Down Act

Image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) is a pervasive and damaging crime that impacts millions around the world. It involves the non-consensual distribution of sexually explicit images, leading to devastating repercussions like harassment, blackmail, and severe emotional distress. The digital age has only exacerbated this issue, allowing images to spread rapidly in seconds. Our current laws fall far short in protecting victims and holding offenders accountable, which is why Senator Cruz (R-TX) and Senator Klobuchar (D-MN) introduced the Take it Down Act this week.

The Take it Down Act is pivotal in the fight against image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) by establishing that IBSA is a Federal Crime. The bill will prevent IBSA through the following steps:

Targeting Perpetrators: The act targets not only the initial perpetrator but also anyone who uploads intimate content without affirmative consent. This broadens the scope of accountability and protection.
Effective Removal: In practical terms, this legislation means that when take-down requests are sent to platforms, the content will be removed within 48 hours, providing real remedies. Currently, take-down requests are often ignored by major platforms like Reddit and Twitter.
Ahead of Deepfakes: The act addresses the emerging problem of deepfakes, establishing a duty for platforms to remove this harmful content.

It's time for us to stand up, demand stricter laws, and advocate for comprehensive support systems. We must act now to end this heinous practice and safeguard the dignity and well-being of all individuals.

Tell YOUR Senator to support the Take it Down Act by taking action below. Your voice can help create a safer online environment and protect countless individuals from this pervasive abuse.

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Having trouble taking action? You can contact your Representative directly here. Feel free to use the email template below:

Dear Senator [First name, Last name],

I am writing to alert you about a CRUCIAL bill that was introduced in the U.S. Senate. The Take it Down Act, introduced by Senator Cruz (R-TX) and Senator Klobuchar (D-MN) is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at combating the devastating impact of image-based sexual abuse (IBSA). As you may know, IBSA is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals, causing irreparable harm and suffering.

The Take it Down Act is instrumental in addressing this issue through several key measures. The Act holds perpetrators accountable, targeting not only those who initially share nonconsensual sexual images but also those who further distribute them without consent, thereby broadening the scope of protection and responsibility. It also holds Big Tech accountable for allowing the vast spread of these images by mandating the effective removal of harmful content. Platforms will be required to remove reported content within 48 hours, providing victims with much-needed relief. This swift action is often lacking in the current landscape. The Act also addresses the emerging threat of deepfakes by setting forth a duty for platforms to remove harmful deepfake content, which exacerbates the risks associated with IBSA.

Most importantly, the Take it Down Act designates IBSA as a federal crime, allowing for stronger legal action and the creation of a duty that can support other legal claims such as negligence. This is LONG overdue.

By supporting the Take it Down Act, you will be taking a stand for justice, privacy, and human dignity. I strongly believe that your backing of this bill will make a significant difference in the lives of many individuals and contribute to a safer, more respectful online environment. Please co-sponsor the Take it Down Act to be a champion for survivors of IBSA.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]