Exposure and cyberflashing
Where exposure can happen
Exposure is one offence, but it can take place in different settings.
Exposure in public
Deliberately exposing genitals in public spaces such as parks, streets, pathways or public transport.
Exposure in private settings
Unwanted exposure during normal day-to-day encounters, for example opening a door naked to a delivery driver, tradesperson or visitor.
Exposure from vehicles
Exposing genitals from a car or van, targeting people walking alone or passing by.
Where cyberflashing can happen
Cyberflashing is a separate online offence. It involves showing someone sexual content without consent, through technology or digital platforms. It can happen:
On video calls or livestreams
Exposing themselves on video calls, livestreams or chat platforms without consent, including unexpectedly turning on a camera or entering a call while exposed.
Through unsolicited sexual images
Sending unwanted photos or videos of genitals through private messages, social media, dating apps or AirDrop.
The impact of exposure and cyberflashing
People commit exposure and cyberflashing more often than many people realise. Whether it’s an isolated incident, exposure repeated in the same location or receiving unsolicited sexual images, its impact reaches far beyond the moment it happens.
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Whether it happens once or repeatedly, exposure and cyberflashing can have lasting effects on someone’s wellbeing. Here are just some of the ways it can cause harm:
- It can lead to distress, fear, anxiety, panic, hypervigilance, nightmares or intrusive thoughts.
- People may feel threatened, humiliated, objectified or targeted.
- They may avoid certain places, routes or situations, such as walking alone, using public transport or going out at night.
- It can undermine someone’s sense of safety in places like parks, bus stops, workplaces or online.
- People may change routines or take extra steps to protect themselves, such as asking for lifts, or not exercising in places they like.
If you’ve experienced exposure or cyberflashing, you don’t have to face it alone. Support is available whenever you’re ready.
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Exposure and cyberflashing have serious consequences.
Many people who expose themselves don’t realise their behaviour is abusive at first. They might minimise it as a joke or make excuses, but the harm is real, and the consequences can include:
- Facing criminal charges under exposure or public indecency laws, which can result in penalties, such as fines, imprisonment and becoming a registered sex offender.
- Court orders can also be made against you such as a Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO).
- Losing the trust and respect of partners, friends, family or colleagues.
- Being banned from certain areas, workplaces or environments.
- Long-term impact on employment, housing and future opportunities.
If you’re worried about your behaviour, it’s not too late to change. Support is available to help you understand your actions and learn how to stop.
How to change your behaviour
Need support?
If you’ve been affected by exposure or cyberflashing, you don’t have to deal with it on your own. Reaching out for support can really help.
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