In connection with the war in Ukraine, many images and videos showing acts of violence are being spread over the Internet. Some of them show prisoners of war, injured or dead people. Forwarding such images is not only in bad taste, but can also be a criminal offense. That's why the following applies: Don't forward everything and report criminal content.
In Germany, the production and distribution of media that shows cruel or inhumane violence against people is prohibited. This ban also applies to the glorification of war or the violation of human dignity, for example by disseminating photographs that show disfigured or dead people. But images of prisoners of war, which are repeatedly used for propaganda purposes by warring parties around the world, should under no circumstances be forwarded. The dignity of these people is particularly protected by the Geneva Convention.
What can users do to stop the spread of violent images online?
Stop the spread of violent images
- Use reputable news sources , such as the online presence of public broadcasters. This also protects against fake news.
- Do not redistribute every content you receive via social networks or messengers.
- Report content that could be criminal to the Internet Complaints Office, jugendschutz.net or the police. Social networks and messenger services also have reporting functions.
- Inform friends, family members and other network users about the criminal distribution .
The two reporting offices mentioned act on behalf of the state. After a report, they ask site operators to delete the relevant content. The police prosecute those who spread banned content over the Internet. It is therefore crucial to report content as comprehensively as possible.
Here's how to report violence:
- Save evidence: Write down or copy the URL to the location of the prohibited content. Share the URL and other evidence with reporting agencies or the police .
- Attention: Do not forward the content to friends or acquaintances if you are unsure and need an assessment. This could make you liable to prosecution.
References to the Criminal Code:
What is a depiction of violence?
Violation of the most personal sphere of life and personal rights by taking pictures
Source: polizei-beratung.de
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Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )

