The new practice among teenagers, one of the effects of the benefits of new technologies, may be described as between mischief and pornography. It has caused some serious concern among parents. Today, it is easy for a youth who has a cell phone to be photographed naked and the image sent via the mobile phone.

Young Americans have found a new way of ‘fun’ by being photographed naked with the mobile phone and sending these images. This trend is known as ‘sexting.’ This is the name of the new phenomenon that combines two explosives in a mix: teenagers and new technologies. It has also given rise to an important legal question: is ‘sexting’ a prank or pornography?

According to a survey, 20 percent of American youth between 13 and 17 years old have sent a half-naked picture over the cellular phone. Sometimes, the images are transported via the network without the consent of the subject. Authorities warn that the person receiving the photos may face charges for possessing obscene material or child pornography.

One of the problems that face authorities is determining who is responsible for sending the message or photo in question, especially when it was sent without the consent of the person concerned. In at least four states in the US, ‘sexting’ is considered pornography and sexual exploitation of children.

Image

Via abc news