Upskirting; FAQs
answered
ABV Solicitors
Smartphones have changed the way people live.
In the last couple of years due to more people working from home, they have
become an integral part of how people communicate about work and with
family and friends.
But with the rise in the use of smartphones has come the rise in the use of
the cameras that accompany them, leading to more people taking photos in
public and not always with the consent of others.
And so, a rise in upskirting has occurred and almost every sexual offence
solicitor in the UK has been asked for advice relating to this activity.
In this short guide, upskirting is explored by a sexual offence solicitor, to help
you make sense of this allegation if you are accused of it. So, read on to learn
more.
What is upskirting in the UK?
According to any sexual offence solicitor, upskirting is a highly intrusive
practice that is growing by the day in the UK and globally.
It typically involves one person using a camera, usually on a smartphone, to
take a photograph underneath someone's clothing without their consent. It is
usually done on public transport which is busy, as this allows for greater levels
of physical contact without concern or question.
It is done to gain a photo of someone’s genitals, buttocks or underwear with
the idea revolving around sexual gratification for the person taking the photo.
It is, according to any sexual offence solicitor, a form of voyeurism and those
targetted can be in any age range and any gender.
What is the punishment for upskirting in the UK?
At present in the UK, anyone found guilty of upskirting in the UK can face 2
years in jail and will be placed on the sexual offender's register, irrespective
of the age of the person in the photos.
So, it is not to be taken lightly if you are accused of it.
I’ve been accused of upskirting, but didn’t do it; what should I do?
The first thing you should do if you are accused of upskirting is to seek the
advice of a sexual offe