Increase in digital abuse victims in Luxembourg

(CS) Internet safety service BEE SECURE warns of sending erotic or naked pictures to others via internet or mobile phone, saying that there is an increasing number of digital abuse victims who see these pictures leaked to the public.

There is a growing number of people sending sensitive material to partners, friends or acquaintances, also known as “sexting”, BEE SECURE said in a statement. However, these pictures frequently end up online without the consent of the sender, for example when a relationship turns sour.

Once brought into circulation, deleting the pictures is incredibly difficult and photos can end up in the wrong hands. In some cases the pictures are also used for blackmail, the organisation warned.

To protect yourself from these kinds of abuses, BEE SECURE recommends simply not sending such material and being aware of the possible consequences that the click of a button to send a message can have.

Anyone spreading the pictures without the consent of the sender can also end up in legal trouble. Especially the dissemination of erotic or naked pictures of those underage can lead to a charge for spreading child pornography, even if the sender took the pictures out of their own will.

Should you find child pornographic material online, this can be reported on stopline.bee-secure.lu. Victims of digital abuse are urged not to remain silent but seek help from the BEE SECURE helpline on +352 2664 0544. Children and teenagers can also contact the “KannerJugendTelefon” on +352 116 111.

For more information on internet safety visit bee-secure.lu