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What is Cyberflashing and How to Protect Yourself from it

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Recently, the first jail sentence has been made in the UK for cyberflashing. What is cyberflashing, and how can we help prevent it?

What is cyberflashing?

Cyberflashing is the act of sending nonconsensual sexual messages or images to someone via digital communication channels.

This disturbing behaviour can manifest across various platforms, including:

  • Social media: Through direct messages, comments, or even posts on your timeline.

  • Dating apps: Used as a means to harass or intimidate potential matches.

  • Messaging apps: Infiltrating chats or sending unsolicited messages.

  • File sharing apps: Exploiting vulnerabilities like AirDrop to transmit explicit content.

Is cyberflashing a crime?

The Online Safety Act (UK) came into effect this year, designating cyberflashing as a criminal offence. Per the provisions of this legislation, perpetrators of cyberflashing could face a maximum sentence of up to 2 years.

To be convicted of cyberflashing, the legal criteria require that the victim experiences humiliation, distress, or alarm upon receiving the image, or that the sender intended to derive sexual pleasure from the act.

Establishing these elements can pose significant challenges for victims, as demonstrating impact and proving intent may require intricate legal scrutiny and evidential support.

The impact of cyberflashing

The experience can evoke feelings of shock, humiliation, and violation, causing significant distress and anxiety. Victims may struggle with a sense of powerlessness and loss of control over their own digital space and personal boundaries.

In some cases, victims may experience long-term psychological consequences, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and difficulty in forming new relationships.

Protective measures

To shield yourself from cyberflashing, consider these proactive steps:

1️⃣ Adjust your privacy settings: Restrict who can contact you or send friend requests on social media and dating apps. This is crucial! Here's a breakdown by platform type:

  • Social media: Limit who can send you direct messages and friend requests. Restrict who can see your posts and who can search for your profile. Many platforms also allow you to control who can comment on your posts.

  • Dating apps: Many dating apps allow you to filter matches based on age, location, and interests. You can also choose to only see profiles that have been verified by the app. Additionally, explore features like "incognito mode" or "block unwanted users" if available.

  • Messaging apps: Manage who can add you to groups or chats. Enable two-factor authentication for added security.

  • File sharing apps: Disable features like AirDrop or Bluetooth sharing when not in use. Only accept files from trusted sources.

2️⃣ Exercise caution with file sharing: Disable features like AirDrop when not in use, and only accept files from trusted sources.

3️⃣ Report and block: Refrain from engaging with the sender. Instead, report the incident to the platform and promptly block the user.

4️⃣ Document evidence: If feasible, capture screenshots of the unwanted content before deleting it. This evidence can be invaluable if you need to escalate the issue further.

How can you help prevent cyberflashing?

1️⃣ Speak Up: If you experience cyberflashing, don’t stay silent. Report the incident to the platform or app where it occurred, and consider reaching out to authorities if necessary. Save the evidence in case it escalates and you need proof.

2️⃣ Spread Awareness: Share information about cyberflashing with your family, friends, and community. Education is key to preventing this kind of harassment from happening.

3️⃣ Support Victims: If someone confides in you about experiencing cyberflashing, offer your support. Let them know that they’re not alone and that help is available at The Cyber Helpline.

4️⃣ Advocate for Change: Push for stronger laws and policies to address cyberflashing and other forms of online harassment. Together, we can work towards a safer and more respectful internet for all.

Responding to cyberflashing

If you find yourself a victim of cyberflashing, remember that support is available:

  • The Platform Where it Happened: Most social media platforms and messaging apps have reporting mechanisms for harassment and inappropriate content. Report the incident directly through their reporting tools.

  • The Police: If the cyberflashing is particularly distressing or threatening, you can report it to the police. You can report online at https://www.police.uk/pu/contact-us/what-and-how-to-report/how-to-report/ or call 101.

  • The Cyber Helpline: A free, confidential helpline led by cybersecurity experts who provide personalised assistance on how to navigate cyberflashing or any online harm. Get Help here.

  • National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC): While the NCSC doesn't directly handle individual cases, you can report the incident to help them understand the cyberflashing threat landscape. You can report anonymously through their website: https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/about-this-website/contact-us

Support Organisations: Talking to a helpline specialising in cyberbullying and harassment can provide emotional support and guidance. Here are a couple of resources:

By raising awareness and adopting preventative measures, we can foster safer online environments for all individuals. For more in-depth information, visit our TCH guides page.

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