RCMP in Nova Scotia are taking a proactive approach to educate youth about the dangers of sharing intimate images.
The Youth Cybercrime Advisory Committee, which is a volunteer group made up of high school students across Nova Scotia has released a collection of videos after recognizing this issue as a huge concern for youth safety.
One of the videos posted is for a youth audience, and the other is for parents, guardians, and those who work with youth.
In the videos, the committee is interviewed about their perspective on the ongoing issue, and give their own thought on what can be done to protect youth.
Constable Jeff Wilson, School Safety Recourse Officer with Kings District RCMP cautions that the sharing of these images could lead to serious consequences.
“The sharing of intimate images under the age of 18 is considered child pornography which is taken very seriously in our society, and in our justice system,” he said.
Wilson believes the sharing of these photos is an ongoing behaviour that is taking place in high schools daily, which is why education on the topic is critical.
He explains that parents need to talk to their children about the repercussions of sharing intimate images.
“There’s a lot of parents that want to be friends with their kids, there’s a time to be light-hearted and jovial about situations, but there are also times to be a parent,” he said, “Even if it means having hard conversations or asking awkward questions, those conversations need to be had.”
According to a release from the RCMP, requesting and sending intimate images is dangerous and can lead to in trauma, sextortion, bullying, regret and even criminal charges.
Those interested in viewing the videos can visit the Nova Scotia RCMP’s Facebook page, where they encourage you to share the videos with the hashtag #StopAskingStopSending.
