Police Tips on How Teens Can Stay Safe

This article was submitted by Det. Ted Delano of the .

Sexting between minors is a felony and can have serious legal consequences. You could be charged with a crime. If convicted you could be labeled as a sex offender for the rest of your life.

Think before you “sext.” Follow these important tips to keep safe:

Never send or post sexually provocative pictures. Once the picture is out there, it will never go away. Don’t risk your future college or employment hopes and your reputation with family, friends, teachers, and neighbors who could see the photos.

Remember that healthy relationships should be based on mutual respect, not just sexual attraction. Sometimes, boyfriends and girlfriends share intimate photos with each other. Since one photo can reach thousands via websites and mobile devices, make sure you never share these photos with friends and classmates.

Refuse to be pressured into sending explicit pictures. If someone threatens you or tries to force you to send a picture, talk to an adult you trust.

Never open or forward explicit pictures from people you don’t know. An online friend that you’ve never met or don’t know in person is really a stranger.

Use caution with devices like computer webcams. Always turn them off or close the lens to prevent prying eyes from seeing too much.

If someone keeps sending you explicit pictures, tell a parent or trusted adult. You need to understand that the adult may have to involve law enforcement or school administrators to help resolve the matter and keep you from getting into a more serious situation.

Talk to your friends about sexting. If someone you know is sharing explicit pictures, encourage them to stop before they get into trouble. If necessary, tell a parent or other trusted adult. Good friends try to keep each other safe.