PanicStation.org
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us Sexual violence & highly sensitive situations intimate images shared • intimate videos shared • nudes shared in group chat • private photos leaked • private videos leaked • non consensual sharing • image based abuse • someone forwarded my nudes • someone posted my nudes • ex shared my photos • partner shared my photos • group chat leak • snapchat leak • instagram group leak • discord leak • telegram nude leak • i feel exposed online • sexual images spread • my photos are being passed around • someone is blackmailing me • sextortion threat

What to do if…
your intimate photos or videos are shared without your consent in a group chat

Short answer

Get to a calmer, safer moment, then focus on containment: report and request removal in the app, save key details, and use specialized tools/support (especially if you’re under 18 or being threatened).

Do not do these things

  • Don’t engage in a long argument in the group chat — it can escalate re-sharing.
  • Don’t send the images/videos to anyone “for proof.” That spreads them further.
  • Don’t pay or comply if someone is threatening to share more (sextortion) — it often increases demands.
  • Don’t repeatedly open the content to “check” it — it can spike distress and doesn’t help containment.
  • Don’t assume you have no options. Reporting and takedown steps can still work.

What to do now

  1. Make a brief safety pause. If you feel at risk of immediate harm, call 911. Otherwise, take 60 seconds, breathe, and move to a private place before you act.
  2. Stop the spread in the group (short, once). Post: “This was shared without my consent. Delete it and do not forward it.” If there’s a group admin/mod, message them directly to remove the content and remove/ban the sender.
  3. Report the content in the app immediately. Use the platform’s tools (Instagram/Snapchat/Discord/Messenger/WhatsApp, etc.) to report the media and account for non-consensual intimate imagery and request removal.
  4. Save only the essentials (without re-sharing the media). Record the platform, group name, usernames, timestamps, and screenshots of the chat context showing who shared it. Avoid saving or sending the intimate images themselves. Store any evidence privately.
  5. If you’re under 18 (or the image/video was made when you were under 18): use child-safety routes.
    • Report to NCMEC CyberTipline (the centralized U.S. reporting system for online child exploitation).
    • Use Take It Down (NCMEC) to create a hash so participating platforms can detect and remove eligible images/videos — without uploading the content.
    • If you’re in immediate danger or being actively exploited, call 911.
  6. If you’re being threatened or blackmailed (sextortion): treat it as urgent. Stop responding, keep the messages as evidence, report the account in the app, and consider reporting to law enforcement. The FBI has specific sextortion guidance, and if a minor is involved, prioritize NCMEC CyberTipline.
  7. If you’re 18+: consider using StopNCII.org to help prevent re-uploads. It creates a hash (“fingerprint”) of your image/video on your device and shares the hash with participating platforms to help detect and remove matches.
  8. Optional: report to the FTC for guidance and tracking. The FTC provides steps for nonconsensual distribution of intimate images and accepts reports.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide right now whether to confront the person, go public, or pursue a lawsuit.
  • You do not need to gather “every copy” before you get help — start with reporting and a small set of key details.
  • You do not need to write a perfect explanation to the group. One clear removal request is enough.

Important reassurance

This is a serious violation, and your reaction (panic, shame, numbness, anger) is a common response to something sudden and exposing. You deserve support, and there are established reporting and takedown pathways — especially when minors are involved or there are threats.

Scope note

This covers immediate steps to reduce harm and slow further sharing. Longer-term choices (state-specific legal options, workplace/school steps, safety planning, counselling) can come after you’re steadier and have support.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe with yourself, you can call or text 988 (988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If the images involve anyone under 18, do not forward them — use child-safety reporting and removal services.

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