You’ve heard of sexting. It’s when texting or other messaging gets sexual.
Texting is amazing. It’s one of the many ways that cell phones and the Internet has made it easier for people to stay in touch and share news.
But sexting can put you at risk. It means sharing sexually explicit text messages of sexual* photos or videos—of yourself or others—using a cell phone or the Internet. (Sharing includes sending, receiving or forwarding content.) It may sound fun and harmless, but it can cause serious problems.
*“Sexual” generally means nude, semi-nude or showing sexual activity.
TALK TO A PROFESSIONAL! THIS BLOG IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED EXPERT.
Why is sexting unsafe? Once you post or send a “sext,” you can’t control it.
Privacy is NOT guaranteed. A sext meant for just one person can easily be seen by or shared with others. This may happen when:
- A relationship ends
- Others get access to a friend’s phone, computer or accounts.
A sext can cause embarrassment and humiliation—by accident or on purpose.
Information can last FOREVER online. It may be copied or re-posted and viewed for years to come.
MORE DANGERS OF SEXTING—
Sexting changes people’s opinion of you. You can end up with an unwanted reputation, for example. Or, someone may expect more from you (sexually).
Sexting can cause bullying. A sext that gets into the wrong hands can clearly be embarrassing. It can also lead to painful bullying, in person or online. That’s one stress in life you don’t need!
Sexting can hurt your future. Schools and employers often search online for information about applicants. A sext you thought was long gone could still be on the Internet—and could cost you a big opportunity for advancement or a new job.
Sexting can get you in serious trouble. For example, students caught sexting may be suspended or expelled, or have notes added to their school records. Some have even faced serious legal charges. (Sexts that involve minors may break child pornography laws in some places.)
Sexting can attract sexual predators. Think sexting someone you only know online is safe? Not so. With just a few details from your online profile, a predator may be able to find you in person.
COMMUNICATE SAFELY
Think before you share any message or image. Ask yourself:
- Would I want this posted on my school bulletin board?
- Would I want my parents, teachers, or coach to see this? Or a future employer?
- Would I feel comfortable saying or showing this in person or in public?
- Treat electronic communications like postcards—many eyes may see them.
Rise above the pressure.
You don’t have to give in to any pressure to sext! You could:
- Just say “No.”
- Give a reason—“It’s not worth the risk.”
- Send a different message—one you feel is OK. (See questions above.)
ALSO, BE SURE TO KNOW—AND FOLLOW—YOUR SCHOOL AND CAMPUS RULES FOR CELL PHONES AND THE INTERNET.
IF YOU GET SEXTED, KNOW THE DO’S AND DON’TS.
Don’t respond.
Whether or not you know the person, never respond to any inappropriate message.
Don’t pass it on.
Remember, forwarding a sext can also get you in trouble. It can also get you in trouble. It can make you as responsible for the sext’s content as the person who first sent it. It may even be considered a crime.
Do tell a trusted adult right away.
Tell a parent, teacher or counselor, for example. He or she can help decide what needs to happen next and when it’s OK to delete the message.
THINK B4 U SEND!!
BellevilleLifeSavers 