Effectively tackling non-consensual intimate image (NCII) abuse starts with a shared understanding of what it is and how it occurs. NCII can involve different types of material, created and shared under very different circumstances, which often leads to inconsistencies in how this abuse is recognised and addressed. What remains constant, however, is that NCII is a serious violation of someone’s privacy, dignity, and consent.
Over recent years, INHOPE member hotlines have seen a steady increase in reports of NCII and self-generated child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This material may be created consensually, or as a result of grooming, coercion, or sextortion by offenders online. In many cases, perpetrators use an initial image to threaten or pressure victims into providing further sexual material, escalating the abuse.
It is also important to acknowledge that NCII is not exclusively perpetrated by adults. Sadly, it frequently involves young people themselves. Research shows that many adolescents view the creation and sharing of intimate images as a normal part of their social or romantic relationships. While sexual exploration is a natural part of growing up, young people are often not fully aware of how quickly such material can be misused, shared further, or weaponised by others once it leaves their control.
Several factors help explain the increase in self-generated content and subsequent NCII abuse. One key factor is the growing normalisation of sexual content online, combined with instant access to image-sharing technology.
Sexually explicit material is no longer confined to adult websites. Young people are regularly exposed to sexualised content across mainstream platforms, where creating and sharing intimate material is sometimes presented as normal, expected, or even profitable. This environment can blur boundaries and make it harder for young users to assess risk or recognise harmful situations.
At the same time, smartphones and messaging apps allow images to be captured and shared within seconds, often without time to reflect on the possible consequences. Even young people who understand the risks can be pressured into sharing images in moments of vulnerability. For victims of grooming or sextortion, taking an image may feel like a way to prevent further harm, when in reality it deepens the abuse.
Experiencing NCII abuse can have severe and long-lasting consequences. Victims often describe feelings of powerlessness, shame, and violation. NCII can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, but for children and teenagers the impact can be particularly devastating.
Victims may experience anxiety, depression, isolation, bullying, and a loss of self-esteem. In some cases, the harm can lead to self-harm or suicidal thoughts. What makes NCII especially damaging is not only the initial sharing of the material, but the ongoing circulation and resurfacing of images over time, prolonging the trauma and making it difficult for victims to feel safe online or offline.
Preventing NCII requires a collective effort, starting with stronger and more relevant digital education. As the online environment evolves rapidly, education systems often struggle to keep pace. Yet open and age-appropriate conversations about online sexual exploitation, consent, and image-based abuse are essential to protecting young people.
Education should reflect the realities young people face online, including the normalisation of sexual content and peer pressure. Children and teenagers need clear information about risks, consent, and the fact that once an image is shared, control over it can be lost - regardless of trust or intention.
As NCII is frequently perpetrated by peers, prevention efforts must also focus on accountability, empathy, and respect. Young people should understand the serious harm caused when intimate images are shared without consent, and that responsibility always lies with the person who violates that consent.
Creating a safer internet is a shared responsibility. Across the INHOPE network, hotlines and partners are developing resources and campaigns to address NCII and support young people affected by this abuse.
If you’ve come across sexual content of yourself or another minor, contact your local hotline to have it removed by selecting your country through the link below.
Safer Internet Day would not be possible without the support of the European Union. Currently, the funding is provided by the Connecting Europe Facility programme (CEF). In the future, actions will be funded through the Digital Europe Programme (DIGITAL). Find out more about the European Commission’s new European strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+) on the EC website.
