Cyberflashing

Cyberflashing is the act of sending unsolicited sexually explicit images, typically of genitals, to another person via digital means such as AirDrop, messaging apps, or social media. It is a form of digital sexual harassment and is illegal in several jurisdictions.

Key Facts

• Most commonly involves sending images of male genitals ("dick pics") to women without consent.
• Can occur in public spaces (e.g., via AirDrop on public transport) or online.
• UK law (as of 2022) criminalises cyberflashing under the Sexual Offences Act.
• Victims often experience shock, disgust, fear, or violation of privacy.

Writing Tips

• Depict the emotional impact and power dynamics involved.
• Show the difference between consensual sexting and non-consensual cyberflashing.
• Explore the context: anonymity, public/private space, and the victim’s response.

Example

Example "Her phone lit up with a preview of an image she hadn’t asked for—a stranger’s body part, brazen and anonymous. The carriage suddenly felt smaller, her skin prickling with unease." Why it works: Captures the suddenness, violation, and emotional aftermath.

Related Topics

• sexting.md
• digital_consent.md
• dick_pic.md
• revenge_porn.md

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Always distinguish between consensual and non-consensual digital sexual acts.
• Laws vary by country; in the UK, cyberflashing is a criminal offence.
• Victims should be supported and empowered to report incidents.