Sexting
Sexting (sometimes called sending nudes, dirties or ‘pic for pic’) is when someone shares sexual, naked or semi-naked images or videos of themselves or others, or sends sexually explicit messages. They can be sent using mobiles, tablets, smartphones, laptops - any device that allows you to share media and messages.
Sexting can be seen as harmless, but creating or sharing explicit images of a child is illegal,
even if the person doing it, is a child.
A young person is breaking the law if they:
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Take an explicit photo or video of themselves or a friend.
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Share an explicit image or video of a child, even if it’s shared between children of the same age.
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Possess, download or store an explicit image or video of a child, even if the child gave their permission for it to be created.
The NSPCC offers advice for parents, from inappropriate and sexual behaviour online, including nudes, to online games to parental controls. Their guides help you make informed decisions and help keep your child safe online. Visit the
NSPCC
for information on keeping children safe online.