Short messages on Online safety issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
When somebody sends you a naked photo, it can feel like a good idea to show it to your friends and often the welfare of the sender isn’t even considered. Please consider the rates of self-harm and plummeting levels of confidence that can happen as a result of having an intimate photo shared.
If you are below the age of 18 or are speaking with somebody that is, sending, requesting or distributing a naked photo is actually classified as child pornography and is a criminal offence.
Whilst it is recommended that you just stay clear of sexting, if you are going to do it don’t show your face or anything that is distinguishable about you; such as a tattoo, piercing or an identifiable piece of furniture.
Blackmail is when somebody uses threats or pressure to try and make somebody do what they want. Trying to manipulate someone in this way is wrong and it is not your fault. You might think that they have all the control in this situation, but they don’t.
You have the right to say no and not be pressured into doing anything you don’t want to do. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do.
1 person in every 4 is likely to share your naked photo without your consent and it could have a significant impact upon how you feel about yourself and others around you.
At the time, sending a naked photo to somebody you like can seem like a really good idea and it is all too easy to overlook the potential risks.
If you know that an indecent image of you or a friend has been posted online, you or your friend can contact the website, such as Facebook or YouTube, to have it removed. You can do this by visiting the help and safety areas of their websites and following their reporting links.
Young people can feel embarrassed and ashamed about being bullied. It is important to know that it is nothing to hide and there is always someone there for you if you want to chat.
Cyberbullying is just as serious as offline bullying and it can be incredibly traumatic. If you are feeling low, it is important that you tell an adult that you trust – this could be a parent/guardian, a teacher, the school counsellor or your doctor. Help is available, you just need to ask for it.