What sexting is
Sexting is sending sexually explicit texts, photos or videos, usually by phone, messaging apps or social media. Between consenting adults it is common and legal, and many couples use it to keep things exciting, especially when apart.
Like anything sexual, it should only happen when both people want it. Sending unwanted sexual images is never OK.
What UK law says
In England and Wales it is a crime to share or threaten to share intimate images of someone without their consent, and sending an unsolicited sexual image (cyberflashing) is also an offence. Similar laws apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
It is always illegal to make, send or keep sexual images of anyone under 18, even if the young person took the image of themselves. Our guide to the age of consent in the UK covers the wider law.
Sexting more safely
Only send to someone you trust, and assume anything sent could be saved or shared. Many people leave their face, tattoos and anything identifying out of the frame. Turn off cloud backup for private photos, and check who you are sending to before you press send.
Be wary of new matches who push for photos quickly; that is a common scam, explained in our guide to spotting fake profiles and scams.
If an image is shared without consent
Do not pay anyone who threatens to share your images. Report it to the police, keep evidence, and contact the Revenge Porn Helpline, which can help get images taken down.
Our guide to your privacy has more on protecting yourself online.
Your questions, answered
What does sexting mean?
Sending sexual messages, photos or videos by phone or online.
Is sexting illegal in the UK?
Between consenting adults, no. Sharing someone's intimate images without consent, cyberflashing and any sexual image of someone under 18 are crimes.
What do I do if someone shares my nudes?
Do not pay them. Keep evidence, report it to the police and contact the Revenge Porn Helpline for help removing the images.
