Victims of intimate-image abuse in B.C. can now seek significantly higher compensation, following changes to provincial legislation that increase the maximum damages available through the Civil Resolution Tribunal.

The province has raised the compensation limit to $75,000, up from the previous $5,000 cap, marking a 14-fold increase aimed at holding offenders more accountable and strengthening support for victims.

“Increasing the damage ceiling as high as $75,000 is a clear message that non-consensual sharing of intimate images is unacceptable in B.C. and carries serious consequences,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General.

“The Intimate Images Protection Act is delivering real results for victims of sexualized violence and this amendment is a step toward ensuring victims can get the justice they deserve.”

The Intimate Images Protection Act allows people to apply online to have intimate images removed, stop further distribution or threats, and seek financial compensation from individuals or platforms involved in sharing the content without consent.

Since the law came into effect in January 2024, nearly 400 cases have been resolved through the tribunal, with additional cases still underway.

Officials say the latest amendments are designed to further strengthen protections for victims.

In addition to increasing compensation, the changes remove the requirement to publish tribunal decisions related to damages, helping protect victims’ privacy.

The updates also clarify what can be included in protection orders, allow those orders to be adjusted when needed, and set clearer timelines for penalties if someone fails to comply.

The province says the changes are intended to make the process faster, more flexible, and more responsive, while reinforcing sharing intimate images without consent carries serious consequences.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.