The Dangers of Sexting

At first engaging in sexting, which is sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit messages, photograph(s) of yourself or others via your mobile, may seem like harmless fun. But it can soon turn into a nightmare, if the photograph(s) or message(s) become widely shared amongst your peer group and are posted on social media.

What Should You know?

If you are thinking about sharing or re-posting sexually explicit photograph(s), image(s) and message(s), it is important that you realise that, it is not harmless fun and that there can be consequences for the person who is the subject of it, as well as those who share or re-post.

Remember such photograph(s) or image(s) or message(s) can be shared or reposted years later, when you have forgotten about even creating it. Remember, it is impossible remove images from someone else’s personal devices.

It is against the law to share and repost sexually explicit images of children and to use such photograph(s) or image(s) to bully or threaten. Please be aware that there can be consequence for you if you share and repost such photograph(s), image(s) or message(s).

What Should You Do?

If you are the person, whose sexually explicit photograph, image or message has been shared or re-posted, it is natural to feel a sense of embarrassment and feel regretful. But remember, whilst there is a lesson to learn, we have all made mistakes and you can get past it.

Remember, if someone forwards a sexually explicit photograph or image, you should delete it, never share or re-post.

If it is your photo, image or message being shared, don’t be a victim.

You should talk to your parents or carers.

Report to MASH@DCFS.gov.ky or call 945-0545 or KIDSLINE on 649-5437 or the RCIPS, call 911. All communication will be kept confidential and you will be offered support.

Alternatively, you can speak to your school counsellor or a trusted adult.