Sexting is the act of engaging in sexual activity via cell phone or computer, includes the exchange of nude photographs and videos. Sexting can result in criminal charges, including possession of child pornography, obscenity and indecency with a child.
CyberCyber-Bullying
CyberCyber-bullying is "when the Internet, cell phones or other devices are used to send or post text or images intended to hurt or embarrass another person."
State Laws
In Indiana, Sexting can result in charges of crimes against a minor and creating, possession and distribution of child pornography. If charged, defendants must automatically register for the Indiana sex offender registry. Juveniles ages 14 and older charged for Sexting will be registered.
Cell Phone Statistics
The cell phone has become a primary mode of socializing for teens and text messaging is the #2 reason teens use the cell phone, just below checking the time. 53% of teens admit to sending hurtful messages. 33% of teens have been victims of a cyber bully through online tools, including cell phones.
Cell Phone Statistics Cont.
20% of teens overall say they have sent/posted nude or seminude pictures or videos of themselves. 11% were teen girls between the ages of 13-16. 13Almost 40% of all teens have sent or posted sexually suggestive messages.
Cell Phone Statistics Cont.
51% of teen girls say pressure from a guy is the major reason girls send sexy messages or images; only 18% of teen boys cited pressure from female counterparts as a reason. 23% of teen girls and 24% of teen boys say they were pressured by friends to send or post sexual content.
Parent·s Responsibilities Regarding Cell Phone
speak with your child about their cell phone habits and your safety concerns access your cell phone carrier·s parental control settings and decide the settings that will work best for you talk with your kids about the consequences for Sexting and cyber bullying
Most Important To Protect Your Child From Both
Even
if your child pays for the phone you are still there guardian and you do have the authority to check the contents of the phone.
Don·t
Overact
or take away your child·s cell phones if they tell you about something bad that they experienced online or with their cell phones. Cell phones are important for emergency situations and staying connected.