Sexting is the shortened term for sex texting and involves sending sexually explicit messages or photos by text message or other electronic messaging system. Although sending sexually explicit messages or photos is generally legal between consenting adults (retransmitting them to others is not) it is a crime for adults or minors (under the age of 18, for example) to send indecent visual depictions (photos, videos, images) of themselves or others to minors. And it is a crime for minors to send indecent visual depictions of themselves to adults or to other minors.

These laws vary from state to state and violations may be prosecuted under statutes regarding the sending of obscene material to seduce a minor; distribution of harmful materials to a minor; distributing or displaying harmful or prurient material to a minor; child pornography laws; cyberstalking; revenge pornography; and harassment. Such laws may be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or as a felony, depending on the state and the specific circumstances of the alleged violation. Violations of these laws have serious consequences for adults and for minors, including potential jail or prison time and required registration as a sex offender.

Criminal offenses related to sexting are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code.

In Oregon, sexting laws primarily address the issue of sending sexually explicit materials to minors or by minors. It is illegal for adults to send indecent visual depictions to minors and for minors to send such material to adults or to other minors. These actions can be prosecuted under various statutes, such as those related to child pornography, distributing harmful materials to minors, and cyberstalking. The severity of the offense can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances. Convictions may result in significant penalties, including incarceration and mandatory sex offender registration. Oregon law is designed to protect minors from exploitation and to prevent the distribution of explicit materials that could lead to harmful situations. It is important for individuals in Oregon to understand these laws to avoid legal repercussions related to sexting activities.