It's very dangerous to keep online secrets.
You will most probably come across people with sinister intentions interested in you.
A person might deceive you by being a great friend or lover, in order to put you in an extremely harmful situation.
Don't risk betrayal, disappointment, and heartbreak by sharing intimate selfies online. No matter if it's a person you know or a potential love interest.
These photos could be used to blackmail or cyberbully you amongst your friends. You might not always be aware that your intimate photos are being shared. Either way, try not to put yourself in such a vulnerable position in order to prove your worth.
You lose total control of your material once it's shared, as it is extremely hard to ever retrieve or delete from the internet. Always think beyond the present moment, and question whether you feel comfortable if it gets shared publicly, with your headmaster, or with your family members such as your parents and grandparents.
So ring the alarm when someone is trying to coerce you into sending nude pics.
Precaution is the only cure.
If you're a victim, please don't hesitate to seek help by speaking to a trusted adult or calling 179.
Don't suffer in silence, because online secrets are very dangerous to keep.
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BeSmartOnline is the Maltese Safer Internet Centre.
For more information follow @saferinternet.mt
For any situations where your child might be feeling uncomfortable with what they're experiencing online, please don't hesitate to contact our helpline by calling 179.
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