SHIELD Act of 2023

This bill makes it a federal crime to knowingly distribute non-consensual intimate images of adults (without consent, not in public, and not a matter of public concern) or images of minors in nude states (with intent to abuse/humiliate). It defines prohibited content, imposes penalties including up to 5 years in prison, and requires forfeiture of assets used in violations. Exceptions cover law enforcement, legal reporting, and service providers who don’t actively promote such content. The law directly affects victims of non-consensual image sharing and individuals distributing prohibited content.