Sexting

Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit messages, images, or videos via electronic devices, most commonly smartphones, but also through email or social media. It can occur within romantic or sexual relationships as a form of communication or flirtation, and may include messages that are suggestive or erotic in nature as well as explicit content.

Sexting is most commonly discussed in relation to adolescents and young adults, though adults also engage in it. Prevalence varies by country, culture, age, and platform, and research methods differ. The practice raises questions about privacy, consent, and digital footprints.

Risks and harms include privacy breaches if content is shared without consent, reputational damage, harassment, cyberbullying, and psychological distress. Non-consensual sharing, sometimes called revenge porn or image-based abuse, is illegal in many jurisdictions and can have serious legal consequences. Content involving minors is illegal in most places, even if shared consensually; adults can also face charges for distributing sexual content involving minors.

Best practices emphasize consent and careful consideration before sending material. Recipients should verify consent, respect boundaries, and avoid sharing content without permission. Use privacy settings, avoid including identifying information, and consider the permanence of digital content, backups, and automatic cloud syncing. Do not send or forward content when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you or someone else is pressured to send sexual material, or if you receive non-consensual content, seek help from trusted adults, school resources, or legal authorities. Many jurisdictions have laws and support services addressing image-based abuse and cyberbullying.