| [ Web Proxy ] |
| Viewing: https://saferinternet.org.uk/online-issue/sexting | [Back] [Original] |
Sexting is the communication between individuals that involves sexual content. This can be through text messages, images or videos. Very often it is between partners, but can be between groups or friends. It can spread across a whole range of devices, technologies and online spaces.
If your child has come to tell you about a sexting incident that they need help with, you are already doing a great job! Creating a space where your child feels comfortable enough to tell you is invaluable. Now that you know you can help you can be there for them when they need it.
Overreacting or being judgemental can cause a lot more panic and worry. It can also shut the conversation down and exacerbate feelings of shame which doesnt help them or give you a platform to try and help, this can also prevent them from seeking your support in the future. It is key to understand their worry and realise they need your support.
If a sexting incident has occurred which has gotten out of control, gather all the information and evidence you can and seek help from your child’s school and/ or local police.
If there is content online it can be reported. Find out how to report to some of the leading industry platforms by visiting Report Harmful Content. You can also report it to the Internet Watch Foundation using their Report Remove tool if the person in the image is under 18. If an intimate image has been shared and the person is over 18, then contact the Revenge Porn Helpline for further support.
Most young people will be familiar with what sexting is, though we cannot assume all young people sext. Rather than discussing risk, it might be more impactful to teach children about healthy relationships and boundaries, empowering them to recognise when something is not right.
Encourage them to trust their gut and know that if someone is asking them to do something they are not comfortable with, stop the communication and seek help from a trusted adult
Allow them to learn that consent is fluid and cannot be assumed. Learning that if someone is pressuring or blackmailing them, this is not right and they need to get help.
Educational resources and services around responding to and managing sexting incidents
The Professionals Online Safety Helpline has released new guidance to support schools and colleges in England on How to Respond…
The Professionals Online Safety Helpline has introduced new resources to aid educators and professionals working with young people.
StopNCII.org is an innovative, global tool that uses ground-breaking technology to protect adults (18+) from intimate image abuse.
If intimate images are sent of anyone under the age of 18 then it is against the law. If someone shares intimate images of anyone on or offline without their permission with the intent to cause distress then this is also an offense.
Maybe one of our helplines is the right place for you.
Get guidance around how to report illegal and harmful content online by taking a look at our online issue page
Cyberflashing is where somebody digitally sends sexual images or pornography to an unsuspecting person.
Find out how to stay safe when livestreaming to an online audience with supporting guidance and resources available.
Youll get knowledge, skills and tools to make the internet safer
for young people at your care. Each sent once per month.
We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Always on
Cookies for the basic functionality of the UKSIC website.
Cookies for additional functionality and increased website security.
Advertising and analytics service cookies that create day-to-day statistics and show ads on their site and on the advertisers partners websites.
| Web Proxy Viewer | New URL | Original Page |
![[UK Safer Internet Centre]](https://saferinternet.org.uk/wp-content/themes/safer-internet/public/a4694a8a298e73c14940.svg){kind=link}