Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina has signed into law a bill that establishes new criminal penalties for the unauthorized disclosure of intimate images, often referred to as revenge porn. The legislation, known as H. 3058, also addresses the use of artificial intelligence and computer-generated technology in creating false or manipulated intimate images.
“As technology advances, so too must our laws to keep pace with emerging threats and protect personal privacy,” stated Governor McMaster. “This legislation sends a clear message that those who harm others by sharing explicit images without their consent will be held fully accountable.”
The new law introduces a felony offense for individuals who distribute intimate images with the intent to cause physical, mental, economic, or reputational harm to the person depicted. A first offense can result in a maximum fine of $5,000 and up to five years in prison. Subsequent offenses carry harsher penalties with fines up to $10,000 and prison sentences ranging from one to ten years.
Representative Chris Wooten commented on the legislative process: “It’s taken a lot of work and the help of our friends in the Senate to get this passed. This is a great day in South Carolina, as we are now not the only state that does not have a revenge porn statute. I am proud to have helped mend this together.”
For cases where there is no intent to cause harm but intimate images are shared nonetheless, the law sets penalties as well. A first offense is considered a misdemeanor with potential fines up to $5,000 and imprisonment for up to one year. Further offenses are classified as felonies with similar fines but increased imprisonment terms up to five years.
The legislation includes definitions for “digitally forged intimate images,” which encompass those created through AI or other machine-generated methods. It also clarifies that consent given for creating or privately sharing an image does not equate to consent for broader distribution.
Passed unanimously by the General Assembly, Governor McMaster officially signed the bill into law on May 12, 2025. The law took effect immediately upon signing.
