What Is Sexting?

Sexting is the act of sending and receiving sexually explicit content through digital communication channels. This includes suggestive or explicit text messages, nude or semi-nude photographs, sexual videos, and voice messages. Sexting occurs through standard text messaging, dating apps, social media direct messages, and dedicated platforms designed for the purpose. Sexting has become a normal part of modern sexual expression and relationship maintenance. Research consistently finds that a majority of adults have engaged in sexting at some point, with the practice being especially common among people in long-distance relationships, early-stage dating, and active dating app users. When practiced between consenting adults, sexting can enhance intimacy, maintain sexual connection across distance, and serve as a form of foreplay. The primary risks associated with sexting involve privacy and consent. Once explicit images are sent digitally, the sender loses control over how those images are stored, shared, or distributed. Non-consensual sharing of intimate images, commonly known as revenge porn, is a serious concern and is illegal in many jurisdictions. To mitigate risks, practitioners can avoid including identifying features like faces or tattoos in explicit photos, use platforms with disappearing message features, and establish explicit agreements about image retention and sharing. Several platforms have emerged specifically for sexting. Apps like Snapchat popularized disappearing messages, though screenshots remain possible. Dedicated adult messaging platforms offer features like screenshot detection, message expiration, and watermarking. Paid sexting services, where users pay to exchange messages with professional sexters, have also become a niche within the broader adult industry. Regardless of platform, the core principles of consent, mutual enthusiasm, and respect for boundaries should guide all sexting interactions.