Is Viewing Extreme Pornography Illegal in England?

Question from ee, Is Viewing Extreme Pornography Illegal in England?

Answer from AI:

In England, the legality of viewing pornographic material, including what is considered “extreme pornography,” is governed by several laws. It’s important to understand what is classified as extreme pornography and the circumstances under which viewing such material could be illegal.

What Constitutes Extreme Pornography?

Under the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, extreme pornography is defined as images that portray, in an explicit and realistic way, any of the following:

• Acts which threaten a person’s life.
• Acts which result in or are likely to result in serious injury to a person’s anus, breasts, or genitals.
• Bestiality.
• Acts of necrophilia.

These images must also be grossly offensive, disgusting, or otherwise of an obscene character.

Legality of Viewing Extreme Pornography

It is illegal to possess extreme pornographic images in England. This means that if you intentionally download, keep, or share such images, you could be breaking the law. However, the mere act of viewing such content on a public website without deliberately downloading or saving it may not necessarily constitute possession. But, if the material is cached on your device or saved in some form, it could be considered possession.

Considerations and Risks

While simply viewing extreme pornography on a public website may not always lead to legal consequences, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind:

• If the content involves child pornography, any form of access, including viewing, is illegal and carries severe penalties.
• Viewing such material at a public place or in the presence of others could lead to other legal issues, such as public indecency or causing harassment, alarm, or distress.
• Some websites may host content illegally, and accessing these sites could potentially implicate you in other legal issues.
• Internet service providers may report suspicious activities to authorities, which could lead to investigations.

Legal Advice and Further Information

If you are concerned about the legality of any material you have come across on the internet, or if you are facing legal action related to the possession of extreme pornography, it is crucial to seek personalized legal advice from a qualified solicitor. They can provide guidance based on the specifics of your situation.

For more information on the laws surrounding extreme pornography in England, you can refer to the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008.

Remember, laws can change, and legal interpretations can vary, so it’s important to consult with a legal professional for the most current and applicable advice.