Indecent exposure or ‘flashing’ is when someone shows their genitals for sexual pleasure or in order to scare or upset another person. 'Cyber flashing' is when indecent exposure happens online or over text message.
Indecent exposure is a form of sexual abuse – the phrase we use to describe any sexual activity or act that happened without consent.
Indecent exposure – or 'flashing', as it is sometimes known informally – is sometimes treated as something 'funny'. But, it's in fact a crime that is often upsetting and scary for the victim or survivor, and can make them feel unsafe. For some people, it can have a long-term impact on their wellbeing.
It is common to hear of people being ‘flashed’ in parks, on the street and on public transport. However, it can happen anywhere and at any time of the day or night.
Indecent exposure can happen in person but it can also happen online or via a text message.
In other words, when someone sends another person an unwanted photo or video of either their genitals or someone else’s – what is commonly known as a ‘dick pic’. Or, when someone exposes themselves to another person over live video.
This form of indecent exposure has become known as ‘cyber flashing’.
If you would like to refer yourself for therapy at HERSANA you can do this through our online self-referral form or you can phone us.
What does cyber flashing look like?
Cyber flashing can be carried out by someone the victim knows, or by a stranger. It can happen in lots of different situations – for example:
How is indecent exposure defined in law?
The term ‘indecent exposure’ is widely used in England and Wales, including by lawyers and police. However, in English and Welsh law, the offence is just called ‘exposure’.
The Sexual Offences Act 2003 says someone commits exposure if they intentionally expose their genitals and intend that someone will see them and be caused alarm or distress.
Someone who commits exposure can be sentenced for up to two years in prison.
Some people who commit this offence show their genitals very quickly before covering them or running away – which is where the term ‘flashing’ comes from. But, others might expose them for longer and/or sexually pleasure themselves at the same time.
No matter how long it lasted, exposure is always a crime.
How is cyber flashing defined in law?
Cyber flashing became a criminal offence in England and Wales on 31 January 2024 under the The Online Safety Act and carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison.
Some people who carry out indecent exposure show their genitals very quickly before covering them up or running away – which is where the term ‘flashing’ comes from.
Everyone responds differently to indecent exposure – so whatever someone feels is a valid response. But, for lots of people, it can have a long-lasting impact on their feelings and wellbeing.
If you have experienced indecent exposure of any kind – whether it was recently or a long time ago – HERSANA is here for you. We will listen to you, believe you and create a safe space for you.
‘Sexual violence’ means any sexual activity or act that happened without consent. Not all cases of sexual abuse involve violence, cause physical injury or leave visible marks. Sexual abuse can cause severe distress, emotional harm and injuries which can't be seen – all of which can take a long time to recover from. This is why we use the terms ‘violence’ and 'abuse', and treat disclosures and experiences just as seriously.
There are two types of sexual abuse – contact and non-contact abuse.
Contact abuse is where an abuser makes physical contact with a victim or forces the victim to make physical contact with someone else. Non-contact abuse is where a victim is abused without being touched by the abuser. This can be in person or online
Sexual violence can take many different forms, but one thing remains the same: it’s never the victim’s fault.
Click on the options below to learn about some of them.
This is not a complete list!
We are working all the time to bring you more information. So, just because something isn't mentioned on this page doesn't mean it's not a form of sexual violence and abuse.
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