Technology Arms Peeping Toms with a New and Dangerous Arsenal: A Compelling Need for States to Adopt New Legislation, 17 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 1167 (1999)

Authors

Maria Pope

Abstract

With the rapid growth of technology, voyeurs are now armed with mechanical devices that aid them in their attempt to invade one's privacy. In addition, the images are now recorded and available for others to view. The introduction of the Internet as a medium to distribute material obtained from voyeurs increases the harm of video voyeurism to an international level. Despite the rapid growth of video voyeurism, numerous states have adequate statutes that make this act a crime. In addition, many state statutes fail to include provisions directed at new advancements in technology and the distributors of voyeur recorded material. Therefore, states must move quickly to adopt privacy statutes that force violators to face criminal prosecution. Additionally, states need to enact or amend current legislation in order to properly account for the advancement of technology and properly penalize perpetrators of video voyeurism. In an attempt to address current legislation, the author proposes a model statute for states to adopt in order to protect the victims of video voyeurism and to punish those who violate another's privacy by actively being a voyeur or by providing a market for the distribution of unauthorized material.

Recommended Citation

Maria Pope, Technology Arms Peeping Toms with a New and Dangerous Arsenal: A Compelling Need for States to Adopt New Legislation, 17 J. Marshall J. Computer & Info. L. 1167 (1999)