Online safety: nobody may demand photos of you

Not everyone online is who they seem. A profile photo, name and age are easy to fake.

• Don't share your address, school, phone number or passwords.
• Keep your accounts private and don't accept people you don't know.
• Don't share your location live.
• Never go alone to meet someone you only know online.

Nobody may demand photos of you, and especially not photos of your body. That goes for someone who says they love you, a friend, someone you know, and any adult. An adult asking a child for that kind of photo is wrong, and you should always tell someone.

Warning signs:

• They act like your best friend and try to gain your trust fast.
• They offer gifts or money.
• They say this is our secret.
• They tell you not to tell your parents.
• They pressure you, sulk or threaten you to get a photo.

If you aren't sure, don't reply. Block them and tell an adult. You don't need a reason to say no.

This isn't your fault. The person who tricked you is to blame.

• Don't send money or more photos.
• Don't delete the messages. Note the profile name and account link.
• Tell an adult you trust as soon as you can.
• Call the Child Helpline on 116 111.

Whatever they say, asking for help is the right thing to do. Adults know how to deal with this, and you shouldn't be left alone with it.