Online safety
Technology can be fun, educational and useful. Lots of kids use phones and computers to help with homework, download music, play games and chat with friends. But online activity can sometimes lead to unpleasant experiences, either because of another person’s actions, or simply because of kids’ own mistakes or misguided behaviour.
The laws around sexting
‘Sexting’ is using the internet to send highly suggestive or sexually explicit images. It’s a growing trend with kids and a common way to flirt among some teenagers. However, it can cause public humiliation and in some cases is illegal.
Warn the young person about the potential risks of sexting and sexual predators. Give them clear rules about what they can and can’t do with their mobile phone and remind them to think before they act. Explain that they have no control over who sees their photos, where they appear or how they’re used after they have been sent.
When is sexting a crime?
Make sure kids understand that sexting involving anyone under the age of 18 is a crime. That means it’s not okay for anyone under 18 to send, receive or share a nude or sexual image, or to ask someone to take an image of that kind. If your child or young person receives an image, they should delete it and let the sender know they don’t want to receive any more.
Sexting is also a crime when it is used to harass someone. At any age, it is wrong to take a naked, revealing or sexual image of someone without their permission, for example, when they’re in the shower or getting changed. It is also wrong to use sexting to make someone feel humiliated or threatened.
Anyone found engaging in illegal sexting activity faces serious penalties, including being listed on the sex offender register.
Lawstuff, a website run by the National Children’s and Youth Law Centre, has some great information about sexting presented in a way that kids and young people can understand.
Make a report
If you believe the child or teen in your care has had inappropriate images taken, or that someone is using sexting to harass them, contact your caseworker and make a report to the police.