By Victoria Barker

IT IS a scenario that's becoming familiar: A private SMS or MMS that's intended only for the recipient is sent out.

Later, the sender discovers it has been passed around without his knowledge.

That is one of the risks involved with the mobile phone phenomenon called "sexting".

"Sexting" refers to the sending of sexually explicit text or photographs through one's mobile phone to friends or potential suitors.

With advances in technology, there are no boundaries as to how far "sexting" can go.

Teenagers seem to be at the centre of the action, judging by media reports of the "explosion of sex texting" recently.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the phenomenon is so rampant in Australia that it has led to 32 teenagers being charged with offences for child pornography.

Any image that portrays a minor in a sexual activity or indecent manner is considered child pornography in Australia, the article said. Anyone who receives or passes on such images is liable to face criminal charges.

The trend is catching on with teenagers in Singapore, according to several of them whom my paper spoke to.

Student Jane Ashley, 22, admitted to participating in "sexting" when she was younger.

Miss Ashley said she sent sexually explicit text messages and photographs to her boyfriend when she was 18.

"I thought it would make me seem cool."

Parents and psychiatrists my paper spoke to feel that although the trend is not all that surprising, teens need to be made more aware of the consequences of their actions.

Miss Ashley agreed: "My photos could have ended up in the wrong hands."

vbarker@sph.com.sg

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