The Real Risks of Sending Nudes

Today might be dubbed National Send Nudes Day — a trending events that pops up each year with a mix of memes, flirtation, and bold selfies - but, while the internet celebrates with cheeky humour and provocative posts, it's important to hit pause and talk about the very real pitfalls of sharing intimate photos.

 

The Temptation and the Risks

Let’s be real: in a digital world where relationships often start in the DMs, sexting has become common. But what starts as a moment of trust and connection can turn into regret, invasion of privacy, or worse.

Here are a few reasons to think twice before hitting send:

1. Loss of Control

Once you send a nude, it’s out of your hands — literally. Even with disappearing messages or private chats, screenshots and cloud backups can keep your photos alive far longer than you intended.

2. Trust Can Be Temporary

People change, relationships shift, and sadly, not everyone respects your boundaries afterward. Nudes can be used for revenge, blackmail (aka sextortion), or simply shared without your consent.

3. Legal Trouble

Depending on your age and the laws in your area, sending or possessing explicit images can cross into illegal territory — especially if anyone involved is under 18, even if it's consensual.

4. Privacy Breaches

Phones get hacked. Clouds get leaked. We've all seen celebrities' private photos made public. The same risks apply to everyone.

5. You Don't Owe Anyone a Nude

If someone is pressuring you to send something you're not comfortable with, that’s a huge red flag. Consent isn’t just about physical boundaries — it applies to digital ones, too. You never have to send anything just to keep someone’s interest, attention, or approval. Your comfort comes first. Always.

Think Before You Share

If you're going to share intimate content, consider safer practices:

• Don’t show your face, identifiable tattoos, or personal surroundings.

• Use encrypted platforms and disappearing messages — though they’re not foolproof.

• Most importantly, make sure it’s fully consensual, mutual, and respectful.

Bottom Line

Sexual expression is valid, and owning your body is empowering — but your digital footprint is forever. On a day like National Send Nudes Day, it’s worth remembering that privacy, respect, and safety are still sexy. Stay smart, stay empowered — and maybe, keep a little mystery too.

Now, with all of that being said, here's me ignoring half of my own advice to share a quick nude selfie I took in the shower this morning!