Peeping Tom laws—also known as voyeurism laws or invasion of privacy laws—generally make it illegal and a criminal offense to peek into windows or doors on private property to view a person who is fully or partially naked for the purpose of sexual desire or gratification.
Peeping Tom laws vary from state to state and some states require that the victim not realize he or she was being viewed and that the victim had a reasonable expectation of privacy (was in a place where it was reasonable to expect privacy). And some states specifically address the use of unmanned aircraft (drones), cameras, video cameras, and binoculars in connection with such peeping. Some state statutes specifically prohibit peeking into bathrooms, dressing rooms, showers, and baths. And some states characterize this criminal offense as trespassing with the intent to peer or peep.
Peeping Tom laws are located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.
In New Hampshire, Peeping Tom laws are addressed under the state's invasion of privacy statutes. Specifically, RSA 644:9 outlines the crime of 'Violation of Privacy.' Under this statute, it is illegal for any person to purposely watch, photograph, or record another person without their consent in situations where the individual has a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as in bathrooms, changing rooms, or their own home. This includes the use of devices like cameras, binoculars, or other means to spy or eavesdrop. The law also covers the distribution of any images or recordings obtained in such a manner. The act becomes a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances and the nature of the violation. New Hampshire law does not specifically mention the use of drones in the context of voyeurism, but the use of any device for such purposes could fall under the general prohibition of invasion of privacy.