May I post camera footage of a burglar online?

You have a burglar on camera. Visceral temptation says "post on Facebook!" Privacy law says no. Three reasons NOT to post online: (1) GDPR: even a criminal is a person → publication without basis = unlawful processing. (2) Defamation (Sr 261-262): "this is the burglar" without conviction = accusation without proof. Burglar can sue you for defamation. (3) Tort (Dutch Civil Code 6:162): person can claim damages — especially on identity confusion (wrong person). What TO do? (1) Police report with footage — police have own routes for investigation + public appeal (e.g. via Bureau Buitenland or Opsporing Verzocht). Police publish under own responsibility. (2) Give footage to insurer for damages claim. (3) Share footage with neighbourhood watch — only under strict confidentiality for recognition. What if footage already online? On burglar's claim: quickly remove. Damages until then: your problem. Fine risk: AP has fined citizens in 2024 for posting "burglar photos" on social.