Hacked account Philippines

Question:
If a person obtained a private video of me by hacking my account, what possible cases can I file against them under Philippine law?

Answer:

Unauthorized Access to Computer Systems

If someone hacks into your account, they may be held liable under Republic Act No. 10175, commonly known as the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012. The Act penalizes unauthorized access to a computer system, which would include your personal accounts where the video is stored.

Illegal Wiretapping

The Anti-Wiretapping Act (Republic Act No. 4200) might also apply in some instances, especially if the video contains conversations that are meant to be confidential.

Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009

If the hacker disseminates or shows intent to disseminate the video, they could also be held liable under the Anti-Photo and Video Voyeurism Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 9995). This Act makes it illegal to capture and share sexual or other forms of private acts without the subject's consent.

Data Privacy Act

Republic Act No. 10173, known as the Data Privacy Act of 2012, also provides penalties for unauthorized processing of personal information and sensitive personal information.

Other Potential Charges

Depending on the specifics, charges for defamation, unjust vexation, or even blackmail could potentially be filed under the Revised Penal Code.

Civil Damages

Aside from criminal charges, you can also file for civil damages for the violation of your privacy and other consequent emotional distress.

Steps to Take

1. Gather Evidence: Document any evidence you have of the hacking. This could include screenshots, emails, messages, or any other information that shows unauthorized access.

2. Report to Authorities: File a formal complaint with the Philippine National Police-Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) or the National Bureau of Investigation's Cybercrime Division (NBI-CCD).

3. Consult a Lawyer: Because of the complexities of cybercrime laws, consult a lawyer to guide you through the filing of the case, preparation of affidavits, and court procedures.

4. File Cases: Submit all necessary documents and attend hearings as needed.

Conclusion

Hacking into someone's personal account to obtain private videos is a serious crime under Philippine law. Various laws apply depending on the circumstances, and multiple charges can often be filed concurrently. It is essential to act promptly, gather all necessary evidence, and consult legal expertise to effectively bring the hacker to justice.