It has become increasingly common for residents to post pictures of individuals they deem “suspicious” in front of homes or flats, often out of fear that they might be potential burglars. These photos, typically shared unblurred on social media, are intended to warn neighbours and others. But is this practice legal, especially when such posts can turn out to be false alarms?
When asked, the Luxembourg police clarified to our colleagues from RTL.lu that individuals depicted in such photos have the right to file a complaint if their identity is revealed through text, images, videos, or similar content published online. If a post violates data protection laws, the person who shared it could face legal consequences. Additionally, posts accompanied by hate speech or insinuations that the photographed individual is a criminal may also breach the law.
So, what should people do instead of posting such photos online? The police emphasise that the correct course of action is to report suspicious activity directly to them. If you believe someone is acting suspiciously, you are advised to share any photos or videos with the authorities.
The police also stress that this is particularly important if a crime has actually occurred. “Such information, as well as responses to private witness appeals, can be crucial for potential investigations,” they explained.
