Manitoba Enhances Laws to Protect Against Digital Exploitation

The Manitoba government has announced significant amendments to its laws aimed at combating digital exploitation. These changes, articulated by Justice Minister Matt Wiebe, focus on enhancing protections against the non-consensual sharing of intimate images, particularly in cases involving youth and coercion.

On October 26, 2023, Wiebe emphasized that the updates are designed to address existing gaps in the law, especially concerning the misuse of nearly-nude images as tools for intimidation or exploitation. “The distribution and threat of distributing intimate images significantly impacts the health and safety of Manitobans,” Wiebe stated during a press conference. “Additional safeguards must be put in place to address this ongoing issue.”

The amendments to the Non-Consensual Distribution of Intimate Images Act broaden the definition of intimate images to encompass those that are “nearly nude.” Furthermore, they introduce new legal prohibitions against threatening to distribute such images—an act frequently associated with blackmail and violence in intimate partner situations.

In another important update, the proposed legislation would criminalize the taking or distribution of nude or nearly-nude images of individuals posthumously. Courts will also be required to consider the views of complainants when deciding whether to impose publication bans. Additionally, a new provision will allow for civil action against websites that do not remove intimate images within a reasonable timeframe.

Lianna McDonald, executive director of the Canadian Centre for Child Protection (C3P), praised the amendments as a necessary response to the current needs identified by child protection advocates. “This proposed legislation is a meaningful step to ensure our laws keep pace with the ever-evolving landscape of online victimization,” McDonald remarked. “We’ve been advocating for many of these changes and we’re grateful the government listened.”

To further support these initiatives, the Manitoba government is allocating $20,000 to C3P through the Federal Proceeds of Crime Fund. This funding aims to bolster school-based prevention programs, family resources, and training for adults working with children. It will support C3P’s Kids in the Know curriculum and the Commit to Kids training program, both of which focus on reducing victimization online and offline.

Wiebe concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting children and ensuring that victims have improved access to civil remedies. The comprehensive updates reflect a proactive approach to dealing with the complex challenges posed by digital exploitation in modern society.