Sexting And Sending Nudes

What Is Sexting And Sending Nudes?

Sexting is the act of sending, receiving, or forwarding sexually explicit content (known as “sexts”) through digital devices. This content is usually shared via instant messaging apps, social media platforms, or direct messages.

Examples of sexting content include:

• Text messages with sexual language or intent
• Photos showing someone naked or semi-naked, usually focusing on private or intimate areas (often referred to as “nudes”)
• Sexually suggestive emojis or memes
• Short videos or voice messages with sexual undertones

How Can Sexting with Someone Affect Me?

While sexting might seem like a private exchange between two people at first, it can have serious and lasting consequences, affecting your mental well-being, reputation, and relationships.

Sexting with someone may:

• Affect your emotional and mental well-being - Sending sexts may bring feelings of guilt and anxiety, with a constant worry that the messages might be shared beyond the intended recipient.
• Harm your reputation if trust breaks - Once shared, your intimate images can spread without your consent, especially after a fallout or breakup, and may damage your digital footprint or lead to bullying.
• Lead to blackmail (Sextortion) - Some people might use your nudes (images or videos) to blackmail you, demanding more images, money, or favours to keep the content private.
• Lead to legal consequences - Sexting with anyone below 18 years old may be a criminal offence under Singapore law and can carry legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or even caning.

What Should I Do If Someone Asks For My Nude?

It is normal to feel afraid or unsure if someone asks you to send a nude. Here’s what you can do to protect yourself:

Set Boundaries Online

• Say “no” to any requests for your nudes, even if they come from someone you know or trust.
• Stop replying or unfollow the person if you feel uncomfortable.
• Adjust your privacy settings [link: your privacy toolkit] so that only people you know can message you.

Think Before You Act

• Pause and think about the consequences before you act and do not give in to the pressure.
• Think before you post, comment, or send anything, and consider if you might regret it later.

Report Inappropriate Content

• If someone sends you an unwanted nude to get one in return, report it and block them immediately.
• If you suspect that your nude has been shared without your permission:

• Report the post to the platform.

• If you have taken nudes and need help to search and remove them, use these tools:

• StopNCII.org: For individuals aged 18 and above
• Take It Down: For those under 18 years old

Engage A Trusted Person And Seek Support

• Talk to a trusted adult, teacher, or school counsellor for advice and support.
• If you’re not sure who to talk to, reach out to a helpline or support service.

What Should I Do?