Avon and Somerset Police release "don't bare then share" video on Safer Internet Day

To coincide with Safer Internet Day, the police force has released a video on its Snapchat channel to warn young people of the dangers, and to encourage parents to talk to their children about "sexting". 

The overriding message of the video is "don't bare then share". 

T/Detective Chief Superintendent, Geoff Wessell, said: "We want young people to think before they take or share an indecent photo of themselves whether it’s on their phone, tablet or computer. They need to consider if they would be happy if their family, friends or the police were able to see those pictures. Something they see as normal could have terrible consequences.

"We are being called to distraught families because explicit photos of their child have been shared on social media. In one case, a girl who had shared a nude selfie with a boy was being blackmailed by him to send more explicit photos or he would post the originals on Facebook. This behaviour is unacceptable but blackmail is one of many consequences of sexting. Our message is simple; don’t bare then share."

Avon and Somerset Police shared the video on Facebook, the post said: "Check out our sexting video for young people, released on Snapchat this morning for Safer Internet Day. 
"Our message is that once someone shares an explicit photo of themselves they are no longer in control of what happens to it.

"Why not use it as a way to start the conversation about sexting with your children? There’s a tonne of advice out there to help you start a conversation that will help them stay safe online."

Students from Chilton Trinity in Bridgwater and King Alfred School in Highbridge helped the force to create the video. 

The post added: "Thanks to our talented actors from Bristol Academy, Chilton Trinity in Bridgwater and King Alfred School in Highbridge who volunteered to take part - you are all stars." 

For NSPCC advice visit nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/sexting/