Is it Sexting or Child Sexual Abuse Material?
Actually, it can often be the same thing.
Q: What is Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM)?
A: Any nude or sexual image or video of someone under the age of 18 (or someone who is depicted as being under the age of 18) is CSAM.
What does this include?
Creation:
Taking a sexual photo or video of yourself or someone else under the age of 18.
Distribution:
Sending or posting a sexual photo or video of yourself or someone else under the age of 18.
Possession:
Keeping a sexual photo or video of yourself or someone else under the age of 18, physically, or on your device(s).
Creating, distributing, and/or possessing CSAM are all criminal offenses under the Canadian Criminal Code.
How Can We Stay Safe?
- If you send a photo, know who you’re sending it to (don’t send photos to someone you don’t know in real life).
- Never share sexual photos or videos on social media.
- If someone sends you a photo, do not show it to others.
- If you receive a naked photo that is not intended for you, delete it and report it to a safe adult.
- If you’ve lost control of an image of yourself or a friend, the law is on your side. Reach out to us or any of the resources here for help.