Abuse Using Technology

Cyber flashing, or cyberflashing, is when someone sends you an unwanted naked or sexual photo or video online or by text message. Most often, this could be when someone sends an unwanted picture of genitals or exposes himself/herself over live video. Cyber flashing can be done by someone you know or by a stranger. It can happen in lots of different situations - for example:

• on dating apps or websites;
• on social media;
• over text, WhatsApp, or other messaging apps;
• during a video call;
• over email; or
• through Airdrop or another app that allows someone to share files with people close by.¹

Cyber flashing can be considered a form of online abuse and sexual harassment. A few states have specific laws that make cyber flashing a crime or a reason to sue the abuser for money. Other states are starting to pass laws like this.

¹Information adapted from Rape Crisis England and Wales