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Flashing and cyber-flashing – what to do and where to get support
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Flashing and cyber-flashing are forms of sexual harassment. Flashing can happen in different ways: for example, someone showing you their genitals in the street without your consent.
Cyber-flashing, on the other hand, is where an individual sends an unsolicited sexual image (including a moving image, such as a GIF or video) through a digital device.
Cyber-flashing, especially in the form of unsolicited pictures of someone's genitals, has become widespread, including on online dating apps. Research by YouGov, highlighted by the dating app Bumble, found that almost half of all women in the UK aged 18-24 (46%) have been sent an unsolicited picture of someone’s genitals, with women being more likely to have received one the younger they are.
Whether it happens in person or online, flashing in any form is unacceptable. Both can be traumatising experiences. These forms of sexual harassment can invade your privacy and make you feel uncomfortable and unsafe.
What does the law say in Scotland?
Sexual exposure (‘Flashing’)
In Scotland, it is a crime for someone to intentionally expose their genitals to you in a sexual manner, intending for you to see them.
Coercing a person into looking at a sexual image (‘Cyber-flashing’)
It is also a crime for someone to make you look at a picture of their genitals (or someone else’s genitals) or of them, or another person, engaging in a sexual act.
Someone could be prosecuted if they flash or cyber-flash you:
- without your consent (or without the reasonable belief that you would consent); and
- for the purpose of obtaining sexual gratification or humiliating, distressing or alarming you.
If found guilty, the perpetrator could receive a prison sentence and be placed on the Sex Offenders Register.
Flashing on public transport
In the last few years, reports of flashing on trains have increased, with reports to the British Transport Police (BTP) almost doubling in 2019. The most common form reported is cyber-flashing and it is often perpetrated through AirDrop and Bluetooth which allow individuals to send media to others nearby.
If someone exposes themselves to you or you receive an unsolicited sexual image while travelling on the rail network, you can report the incident to the British Transport Police. You can either call 0800 40 50 40, text 61016 or use this form designed to report indecent exposure.
Reporting to the Police
If you have experienced flashing or cyber-flashing, this can be reported to the police. It is entirely your choice to report to the police, and it is understandable that you may need some time before deciding what you wish to do. If you are considering this option, our guide on Reporting sexual crime to the police can be a helpful starting point. It explains the process and your rights when making the report.
Legal advice
Our sexual harassment service is run by an expert solicitor who can provide you with information on your rights. We run a legal helpline, as well specific legal surgeries for women who have experienced sexual harassment. These services are free, and you can find out more about them on our website.
Support for survivors of flashing
Here is a list of free support services that are there for you after experiencing flashing or any other form of abuse:
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