The non-consensual publication of adults’ intimate images was already a significant problem when the Internet Hotline was launched in 2011; however, both the methods and motivations behind such abuse have evolved continuously over the past decade and a half. The legal assistance service handles these reports under the category of content published without consent. In 2024, analysts identified 150 such cases, while in 2025 – already before the Christmas period – 128 cases had been recorded.

According to the NMHH’s legal assistance service, whereas in the past reports concerning the misuse of intimate images were submitted exclusively by women, in 2024 and 2025 at least as many men sought help as well. This trend is consistent, among other sources, with data from the Dutch hotline, which indicates that men account for nearly 40 per cent of victims.

Female victims previously reported to the Internet Hotline that former partners had shared sexual images—created consensually during their relationship—with the public as an act of revenge, in several cases on websites specifically designed for this purpose.

By contrast, the sextortion of male victims typically begins with a seemingly simple online acquaintance on a well-known dating platform. The future victim starts chatting with an unknown woman whose profile features an attractive photo. Over time, the conversation turns sexual in nature, during which the perpetrator induces the man to send intimate images. The situation then escalates into sexual extortion: the perpetrator threatens to publish the images publicly unless the victim pays a requested amount of money. It is usually at this point that men turn to the Internet Hotline for help.

In several reports, the Internet Hotline has observed that perpetrators used artificial intelligence to manipulate images of the reporter that were not intimate in nature, transforming them into nude or sexually explicit content. Such images and videos can likewise serve as a basis for blackmail, intimidating and coercing victims.

Experience shows that during this type of abuse, victims—regardless of gender—may experience shame, sadness, anger and rage, as well as fear, guilt, helplessness, a sense of complete hopelessness and vulnerability. These feelings, combined with the fear of victim-blaming, make it particularly difficult for victims to seek help.

Experts at the Internet Hotline advise that if we recognise that we have become victims of online abuse, we should not give in to the blackmailers’ demands and should seek professional assistance as soon as possible.

The Internet Hotline welcomes reports from victims of intimate image abuse via its online reporting form under the category of content published without consent. Anyone, regardless of age, may submit a report to the NMHH’s legal assistance service. In cases where a criminal offence is suspected, victims may also file a police report with the police department competent for their place of residence.

For psychological support, individuals can contact the local helpline options. In Hungary, under the age of 24 can contact the Blue Line Child Crisis Foundation (Kék Vonal Gyermekkrízis Alapítvány) on 116 111, while those over 24 are advised to call the free emotional support helpline on 116 123. The Hungarian Victim Support Service’s Victim Support Line is also available free of charge at 06-80-225-225. In-person assistance can be sought at the nearest Victim Support Centre, the list of which is available on the organisation’s website.