Oh no! Now they have seen me naked!
Sexting is the mutually agreed sharing of images, videos or photos that can be both attractive and sexy.
The taking, sending and possession of nude or similar photos involving minors is PROHIBITED by law. According to the Penal Code, even the creation and sending of such images of oneself falls under the “pornographic representation of minors”. Even if you are a minor, you can be liable to prosecution if you take, send or transmit sexually explicit images/videos of yourself.
Needless to say, the possibility of a photo or video being misused by someone who gets their hands on it constitutes a significant risk.
The reasons for sexting can differ. Perhaps you come across someone interesting and want to grab their attention. Maybe you are in love and want to surprise someone. Or you’re in a relationship and you want your partner to look forward to the next time he/she sees you. Sometimes, it’s just because you cannot see each other as often as you want in person.
It could also be that you are persuaded to send nude photos of yourself or that someone is pressuring or even blackmailing you.
However it happens, the most important point is that it is up to each individual to decide whether or not they want to do it.
There can be many different reasons for an image or a video being misused: maybe a friend (not a very good friend) got hold of your cell phone, or the person you trusted isn’t that trustworthy after all. Perhaps a relationship is breaking up and the emotions stirred up prevent you from thinking clearly and making the right decision, or maybe someone has a grudge against you.
Control List for prevention:
- Who wants this photo?
- Do I really want to take this photo?
- Do I really want to send the photo to this person?
- Does this question give me a strange feeling?
- What are the possible consequences for me?
- Do I want to talk to someone about it first?
- What are my rights in this area?
- What does the law say?
- Can I say NO? Of course you can say NO!
If you have further questions on the subject of sexting, you can contact the BEE SECURE Helpline (8002 1234) or the Kanner-Jugendtelefon (116111).
You can also find more information on this topic on the following pages: