‘Sexting’ describes the use of technology to share sexual and sexually implied content. This content includes texts, photos of partial nudity and sexual images or video. This could be shared between partners, peers and strangers. Individuals may use a range of technology to share the content.The sharing of naked pictures is not a new thing but the speed with which you can share and the potential audience size has dramatically changed as a result of the online world.
What is the law?
If a young person under the age of 18 engages in sexting by creating an explicit photo or video of themselves then they have potentially created an indecent image of a child. By sending this content on to another person, they have distributed an indecent image of a child. By receiving content of this kind from another young person, they are then in possession of an indecent image of a child.
What other risks are there?
Other than the legal implications you need to also consider the possible reputation and emotional consequences of sexting.
Reputation damage: sexting content can be distributed to other users very quickly, so once you have sent sexting content it is very hard for you to control where the content is posted. Your reputation could be damaged by this type of content if future employers, universities, colleges or friends see it.
Emotional and psychological damage: the distribution of sexting content to others can cause distress and be really upsetting for those involved, especially if the content is distributed by someone they trusted. The effects of others seeing this content can lead to negative comments and bullying, and may result in a loss of confidence or self-esteem.
It happened, what can I do next?
