Teens across the country are increasingly engaging in a practice known as “sexting”—taking nude, semi-nude, or sexually explicit photos of themselves with cell phones and sharing the pictures with classmates via text messages.

While some experts believe this behavior simply reflects a 21st Century manifestation of the age-old combination of teenage hormones and poor judgment, parents must be aware not only that “sexting” can be prosecuted under child porn laws in most states, but also that predators are lurking behind cell phone screens waiting to groom kids for exploitation.

“While we knew that predators were preying upon children on social networking sites and chat rooms, we’ve now learned that sexual predators are utilizing wireless technology to ensnare their victims,” said Rick Schatz, president and CEO of the National Coalition.

One recent example is a 36-year-old Evansville, Indiana man who sent sexually explicit text messages to numerous eighth grade students and later taped himself having sex with one of the victims.

“This is just one of many such cases across the country,” added Schatz. “It is time for parents to wake up and take action. We must become educated on this issue and vigilant in talking with our kids about the dangers.”

Parents should immediately take the following action steps:

• Engage in open, honest discussions with your teen on this topic and emphasize the importance of not posting their cell phone number on any website.
• Review your wireless cell phone provider’s parental controls. Many phones allow parents to turn off the picture, texting, Internet, and camera capture capabilities.
• Review the National Coalition’s booklet Sex and Cell Phones: Protect Your Children.
• Discuss and sign the Safe Use Agreement with your teen.
• Forward this email to your friends and family. Every parent needs to know!