The Dangers of Online Nude Sex

Online Nude Sex refers to sending and receiving sexually explicit photos, videos or messages via cellphone (or “cell phones” in general). This is also known as sexting. This practice can result in unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, or even assault. This is why it’s important that we educate young people about the dangers of online sex and how to avoid it.

Nude sexting can occur on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Tumblr, and others. While some of these sites have age restrictions and chat features that limit the ability to send nude images, there is always a possibility that someone may screenshot an image or video or access it using another app. Many people use social media on multiple devices and may accidentally share images or videos.

Sexting can also occur between two people who are not close friends, including strangers or acquaintances. Sexting is not always harmful, but it can be dangerous if someone pressures you to do it. This pressure can include threats, sexual harassment, and extortion.

Moreover, once these intimate images or videos are shared they can be difficult to delete from digital trash bins and cloud storage. This is why it’s important to only sext with people you trust and to delete any images that have been sent once they’ve been received. It’s also important that teens don’t send a text to their best friend, then tell someone about the conversation (known as gossiping). If a teen finds out that they were shared without their consent, it can be upsetting and impact their life in ways they never expected. They could lose their job or their chance of getting into the college they want.

In some places (like New York) it is illegal to distribute child pornography, which includes nude sexting of people who are 17 or younger. If someone receives a nude photo or video of someone they don’t know, they should report it to the authorities.

You should have regular conversations with your teenager about the dangers of sexting and how to stay safe online. You can do this by opening a conversation about real-life stories that have happened in your community or by using the resources and information on eSafety’s website. You can help them to make good decisions. You or your teen can speak to someone at Meic if you think they have been victimized by online sexual abuse, or are being pressured into sexting. We are here to listen, and we can provide confidential advice and support. If they believe that a friend or acquaintance has breached their privacy, they can also contact CEOP. This service is free and helps remove inappropriate content on the internet.