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 Rhode Island, Peeping Tom laws are addressed under the state's voyeurism statutes. Rhode Island General Laws § 11-35-1 specifically criminalizes 'video voyeurism,' which is the act of secretly viewing, photographing, or recording another person for sexual gratification without their consent when that person is in a place where they would have a reasonable expectation of privacy. This includes, but is not limited to, areas such as bedrooms, bathrooms, changing rooms, and any other places where a person may be disrobing or engaging in intimate activities. The law also covers the distribution of any images or recordings obtained in this manner. Additionally, the use of devices like cameras, drones, or any other means to facilitate such voyeurism is also prohibited. Violation of these laws can result in serious criminal charges, including felony charges for certain acts of video voyeurism. Rhode Island law does not require that the victim be unaware of the observation for the act to be considered criminal, and the statutes provide for enhanced penalties if the victim is a child under the age of 18.