Sexting
Sexting is sending texts or messages of an adult nature to another person. It often includes sending adult images or video clips. I define an adult image as an image of someone in a "sexy" pose, often with less clothes on than usual. An adult image does not have to be a nude, but obviously nudes fall into this category.
Not everyone sends such messages but you might be thinking about sending a naked selfie, either:
- To a boyfriend or girlfriend
- As a way to flirt with someone you like
- To make your friends laugh
- Or because you have been asked to and feel pressured to
It is risky to send one...once an image or video has been sent it is out of your control. It will highly likely be shared with others and possibly uploaded to the internet. This causes a lot of pain, embarrassment and upset for the people involved.
Another risk is someone can then use it to blackmail you..."do this thing or I will send that image to all your family..."
It creates a legal situation too. As images of under 18 are children, then sending "sexy" images of any one under 18 is seen as sending images of children which is paedophillia, which means that the police will always be involved when this happens. This is the case even if the people involved are 15 /16 and there was consent. It is also the case when a teenager is sending a picture of themselves - they are still a child in the eye of the law.
Click here for advice on what to do if you've sent a "adult image". Key advice is don't panic and talk to an adult you trust.
For more information, and to see how to get help outside of school, please visit Childlines site or the NSPCC, or this thinkuknow page
Megan's Story - A Sexting Video
If someone asks you for nudes, sends you unwanted sexual images, or makes you uncomfortable by talking about sex to you online, report it to CEOP
Risks of Sexting