A new campaign has been launched by Sussex Police to encourage young people to think carefully before sharing intimate photographs online.
The Think Twice initiative warns teenagers that once an image has been sent, they lose control over who might see it.
Police say private photographs can be forwarded to others or published online, potentially reaching hundreds or thousands of people and causing devastating consequences.
More than 30 schools across Sussex have signed up to the campaign, which provides educational resources including posters, digital displays and materials for classroom lessons.
Award-winning designer Pedro Allevato, who has worked with Marvel Studios and Gorillaz, has collaborated with Sussex Police to create three animations reinforcing the campaign’s message.
Detective Chief Inspector Neil Bates, child sexual exploitation lead, said: “There is a growing issue with children, particularly teenage girls, feeling pressured to send intimate photos of themselves to someone else. This could be for a number of reasons, sexual experimentation, or pressure from someone else – perhaps a boyfriend or someone they have met online.
“Unfortunately, that private image often does not stay private between those two people. We want to ensure young people are aware that the photo they’ve sent could end up being forwarded on to hundreds of others or even published online for anyone to see.
“Our message is Think Twice before you press send and always talk to an adult you trust, or the police, if you are at all concerned. We will listen to you and we will support you.”
Further advice for teenagers and parents is available through the Sussex Police Think Twice campaign website.
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