Session 2 ‘Send me a Selfie’

Send me a selfie Watch ‘Send me a selfie’ CyberSense is very careful in approaching sensitive topics and to not put ideas into young people’s heads – this is how it approaches the issue of sexting. Watch the film - https://cybersense.wistia.com/medias/ece441de5y Watch ‘Send me a selfie’

Network Sexting The term ‘sexting’ is used to describe the sending and receiving of sexually explicit photos, messages and video clips, by text, email or by posting them on social networking sites. It is increasingly done by young people who send images and messages to their friends, partners or even strangers they meet online. Send me a selfie - CyberSense Your child needs to remember their NETWORK of support and if they find themselves in a situation who can help them out

Network Facts to support why CyberSense is such an important resource and parental support is key

This means just by taking an image, even if they never share it, your child would technically be committing a crime

Educate Young people may fail to understand the implications of sending a sexually explicit image. Under British law it is legal to have sex aged 16, but it is illegal - and a serious criminal offence - to take, hold or share "indecent" photos of anyone aged under 18. As a parent or caregiver it is important to speak to young people about the consequences of taking and sending explicit images. Young people should understand that once an explicit image has been sent it is no longer in their control. The image may end up on what is known as a 'parasite website'. Such sites hold explicit images and videos from all over the internet - usually without the original sender's knowledge. Once an explicit image is online it could tarnish a young person's reputation for years to come and potential employers could view the images, long after the individual has left school.

Use Your CyberSense! The Internet Watch Foundation searches for explicit images and videos of under 18 year-olds and removes them. Before it gets to that stage, parents and carers can help educate young people about the risks of sexting.

Support What can you do? Explain to young people they should never pressurise anyone into making an explicit image. Be clear about what can happen if they do send a sexually explicit image. Stress that where the image goes next and who sees it will not be under their control. Make sure they are aware that it is against the law to take or hold an explicit image of someone under the age of 18. Hints and tips for parents

Support is available through many organisations such as the NSPCC, Barnardo’s and CEOP