Distributing or publishing intimate images of someone without their consent with intent to cause harm will carry a maximum seven year prison sentence, under new laws being proposed by the Government.
Justice Minister Helen McEntee will seek Cabinet approval for the move this week.
It comes after thousands of pictures of women and girls were leaked online last week.
Under the proposals, there will be a separate offence for taking, publishing or distributing intimate images without consent that will carry a maximum penalty of a year in prison or a €5,000 fine.
It's in a bid to tackle incidents of revenge porn and illicit picture taking like up-skirting.
The offence will also apply even if there was initial permission to take the photo, but it was then shared without that person's consent.
Last week, Justice Minister Helen McEntee said she shared the “upset and anger” people around the country are feeling about the images shared online.
She said she was "determined to act and to introduce tough new laws" to address the problem.
