Is It Legal to Post Screenshots of Text Messages?

Sharing a screenshot of a text exchange is something people do constantly. As a general matter it's legal, but a few situations can turn an ordinary screenshot into a legal problem.

If you were part of the conversation

In most states, you can share messages you were a party to. Owning your side of a conversation generally means you can repost it, since you received the messages legitimately. (Recording private audio is governed by different wiretapping rules — text screenshots are treated more permissively.)

Where it can go wrong

Trouble can arise if a post: contains a false statement of fact that harms someone's reputation (defamation); reveals highly private, non-newsworthy facts (a privacy claim in some states); breaks a confidentiality or non-disclosure agreement; or exposes sensitive personal data (financial details, medical info, or another person's contact information used to harass). Posting intimate images carries separate, serious laws.

Messages you weren't part of

Sharing private messages you obtained without authorization — say, from someone else's phone or account — is riskier and can implicate computer-access or privacy laws. Stick to conversations you legitimately took part in.

This is general information

Defamation, privacy, and confidentiality rules vary by state and are fact-specific. Before posting something potentially harmful or sensitive, consider the risks and, for anything serious, consult a qualified attorney.

Frequently asked questions