STOP CSAM Act of 2025

Enhanced Protections for Victims in Court: The bill expands the definition of "protected information" to include personal details, medical records, and educational history, which helps safeguard the identities of victims and witnesses (Section 2, subsection a, paragraph 13 and 14).

Stronger Support for Victims' Views: It requires guardians ad litem to make efforts to report the views of child victims using forms appropriate for their age and ability (Section 2, subsection a, paragraph (f)(2)(B)).

Increased Accountability for Tech Providers: Service providers are now required to report facts regarding child sexual exploitation to the CyberTipline as soon as reasonably possible, and no later than 60 days after obtaining knowledge (Section 4, subsection a, paragraph (1)).

Expanded Legal Recourse for Victims: The bill creates a new private right of action, allowing victims of online sexual exploitation to sue for actual damages or liquidated damages of $300,000 against certain providers and app stores (Section 5, subsection b, paragraph (1)).

Financial Support for Victim Care: The act authorizes $25,000,000 annually for the United States courts to carry out provisions related to protecting child victims and witnesses (Section 2, subsection a, paragraph (5)(A)).

Restitution Protections: It allows for the appointment of a trustee or fiduciary to hold and administer restitution payments for the benefit of victims who are minors, incapacitated, or foreign citizens (Section 3, subsection (q)(1)(B)).

Financial Burdens on Tech Providers: Companies that fail to report exploitation or maintain required materials face significant criminal fines, reaching up to $1,000,000 or more if harm occurs, as well as civil penalties of up to $1,000,000 (Section 4, subsection e, paragraph (1) and (2)).

Strict Compliance Deadlines: Providers must submit reports within a specific timeframe (no later than 60 days), which places a strict administrative burden on the tech industry (Section 4, subsection a, paragraph (1)).

Increased Litigation Risks: By expanding civil remedies and allowing for punitive damages, the bill increases the likelihood of costly lawsuits against interactive computer services and app stores (Section 5, subsection b, paragraph (1) and (2)).