Sexting is the act of sending sexually explicit messages or photos electronically, primarily between mobile phones, but can also via internet applications such as MSN, email or social networking sites.

In Australia, if the images are of a young person under the age of 18 years, the person taking the pictures, sending them, or possessing them can be charged with child pornography offences.

In one survey, 69% of teens reported sexting a girlfriend or boyfriend.

SOURCE: Susan McLean (www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au), Healthed Adelaide Women’s & Children’s Health Update & Education Day 2009. Editor Ramesh Manocha.