Cyber Bullying and sexting are two of the new concepts that are affecting many young children and learners. The sharing of explicit content, nude/semi-nude photographs, videos and messages portraying sexual behaviour has become a popular trend amongst youth.

What is cyber bullying?
Cyber bullying is harassment that takes place through the use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers or tablets
on social media sites, via text or instant messaging and chat. It occurs in the form of mean or hurtful messages, embarrassing or explicit photographs, videos or emails are shared or posted on these platforms and causes harm to others.

What is Sexting?
Sexting is when nude or semi-nude photos or videos and sexually suggestive messages are sent via mobile phone through texting or chat. These types of messages may be classified as child pornography especially where minors are involved.

Did you know there are legal consequenceS if you are involved in cyber bullying and Sexting?
Section 19 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters ) Amendment Act, 2007 (Act 32 of 2007) states that any person exposing, displaying, or causing exposure or display, of child pornography to a child is guilty of the offence of
exposing or displaying or causing the exposure or display, of child pornography or pornography to a child.

If you are found guilty of sharing explicit content, you may be criminally charged With the following offences:
Crimen injuria: This is the intent to violate the dignity and or privacy of another person.
Assault: This is an intentional act which causes harm to another person’s bodily integrity.
Criminal Defamation: This is intentionally causing harm or hate speech that seriously impacts or injures a person’s reputation. This can be done verbally or in writing.
Extortion: This is when a person intentionally obtains information such as videos, images etc which is used to pressure others into doing something or even paying for the information not to be leaked.

Play your Part to Stop cyber bullying and Sexting
• Parents are urged to play a role and be aware of the type of technologies and social media platforms that are used by children and to monitor the type of content that is shared on these platforms.
• Let’s stop cyber bullying and sexting! Report anyone who is a suspected perpetrator of cyber bullying and sexting.

Where to Seek help or report cyber bullying and Sexting?
• Call Childline on 080 005 5555
• Call lifeline on 011 728 1347
• Report a case to the south african Police services 10111 or 086 001 0111