Digital sexual abuse
Digital sexual abuse happens when someone uses technology – like social media, messaging apps, or the internet – to cross your sexual boundaries. This can include

- Sharing private images without consent: Someone posts or sends intimate photos or videos of you without your permission
- Pressuring you for nudes: A person keeps asking for sexual photos or videos, even after you say no
- Recording or streaming without consent: Someone secretly records intimate moments and shares them
- Threats and blackmail: A person forces you to send explicit content by threatening to share something private or embarrassing
- Unwanted sexual messages: Receiving explicit messages or pictures that make you uncomfortable
How does it affect you?
Experiencing digital sexual abuse can make you feel ashamed, scared, or powerless. You might worry about what people will think or feel like you’ve lost control over your privacy. It can also lead to stress, anxiety, depression, or even bullying.
What can you do?
Know that it’s not your fault: No one has the right to pressure you or share your private content
Protect your privacy: Be careful about what you share online and with whom. Use privacy settings and avoid storing sensitive images on your phone
Block and report: If someone is harassing you, block them and report their behavior to the platform or authorities
Talk to someone: If you experience digital sexual abuse, speak to a trusted friend, adult, or professional at Bos di Hubentut or Ayudo pa Mucha i Hóben.
Know your rights: Sharing intimate images without consent is a serious violation, and in many cases, it is illegal. If this happens to you, you have the right to seek help and take legal action. If you have been affected you can contact the police on the following numbers:
- 911: Emergency
- 917: No emergency
- 108: Report anonymously
You deserve respect online and offline
Your body and privacy belong to you. If someone crosses your boundaries online, reach out for support. You are not alone, and help is available.
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