Sexting
What is it?
Cybersmart poster - 'Some things were never meant to be shared'
Sexting is the sending of provocative or sexual photos, images, messages or videos using a mobile phone or posting online.
Once you’ve sent a picture or message, it’s out of your control. Images posted online can be almost impossible to remove and they may come back to haunt you anywhere and anytime well into the future.
There’s no such thing as safe sexting, even if you think you can trust your current boyfriend or girlfriend.
Could I be breaking the law?
Sexting may seem funny or flirty but there can be serious social and legal consequences, particularly if you’re under 18 years old.
Sexting images may be considered child pornography. Even if all participants are willing, they may be breaking the law if they take and share naked or sexual images of themselves or others who are minors.
How do I deal with it?
- Think before you post—it could be online forever.
- Adjust your privacy settings—some things were never meant to be shared.
- Manage photos or images tagged with your name - detag asap.
- Delete any sexting you receive and don’t forward anything on.
- Consider others before you photograph or post.
- Talk to an adult you trust.
If you want to talk about a problem with cyberbullying, you can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, visit Kids Helpline or contact the Cybersmart Online Helpline service.