People express their emotions and affection for one another in different ways. Today, much of our day-to-day life is conducted in the digital realm or online, and this includes our romantic relationships.

Your partner might work away for extended periods in which neither of you can be intimate with one another. You may both then decide that sending intimate images or videos to one another is a way to show that you both still care.

While there is nothing wrong with this in itself, there are certainly a number of factors to consider. A lack of understanding of the law in regards to sexting could potentially lead to criminal charges.

Digital intimacy must remain private

It is possible that both you and your partner may have been anxious about sending each other intimate material, as this was not something that either of you had done before. However, you both warmed to the idea and the fact that any images would remain private reassured you.

This form of trust should not be broken when it comes to intimate material. Data that was intended to remain private should remain so. Even a brief brag to your best friend could see you on the wrong side of the law. Such behavior may be classed as revenge pornography, which is a criminal offense with serious penalties.

Always consider consent

Whatever you are doing with another person, you always have to think about whether they are truly consenting or not. This is especially the case for intimate activities. In terms of online behavior, it is vital to make sure that all parties are on the same page. If you send an intimate image out of the blue, then you might not only be making the other person uncomfortable, you could be committing a criminal offense.

Any type of sexual charge is serious and you need to defend yourself if placed in this position. Exploring your legal rights in detail will help to protect you and help you better assist in your own defense.