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 Washington State, sexting laws are designed to protect minors from the distribution and receipt of sexually explicit material. It is illegal for adults or minors to send indecent visual depictions of themselves or others to minors, and it is also illegal for minors to send such depictions to adults or to other minors. These activities may fall under various statutes, such as those concerning the distribution of obscene materials, child pornography, and exploitation of minors. The specific charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances and the severity of the offense. Consequences for violating sexting laws can be severe, including imprisonment, fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender. Washington has also enacted laws against cyberstalking, revenge pornography, and harassment, which can be related to sexting incidents. It's important for individuals to understand that even consensual sexting can lead to legal repercussions if it involves minors or if the content is shared without consent.