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When You Receive Indecent Pictures: How to Handle Unwanted Content Safely and Legally

  • Writer: RIZE
    RIZE
  • Mar 28
  • 3 min read

Updated: May 2


👉 If you're an athlete, especially with a public presence, people might send you unwanted, explicit pictures. 

👉 It can be shocking, uncomfortable, and even scary — and it’s never okay.


💥 It doesn’t matter who you are, what gender you are, or what the sender’s intentions are — you do NOT have to accept it.



When You Receive Indecent Pictures: How to Handle Unwanted Content Safely and Legally

1. First of All: It’s Not Your Fault — Ever


⚠️ If someone sends you an explicit picture or message you didn’t ask for:

  • That is harassment.

  • You did nothing to deserve it.

  • You have every right to protect yourself and set boundaries.


💥 You deserve to feel safe, respected, and in control.



2. Why It Happens (And Why It’s Never Okay)


👉 Some people think that because you're in the spotlight, they’re entitled to access you in this way

👉 Some might try to test your boundaries, make you uncomfortable, or get a reaction

👉 Some think it's a "compliment" — but it’s actually disrespectful and abusive.


💥 It’s not your job to tolerate it, explain yourself, or be polite about it.



3. What to Do Immediately If You Receive an Indecent Picture or Message

✅ A. Do Not Respond

  • No replying, reacting, or engaging.

  • Any response can encourage them to keep going.



✅ B. Save Evidence (If You Feel Safe to Do So)

  • Take screenshots — include usernames, time, and date.

  • Store them in a safe folder, separate from your personal photos.

  • This is important if you decide to report it later.



✅ C. Block and Report

  • Block the person immediately.

  • Use the platform’s tools to report the message as harassment, abuse, or inappropriate content.

💥 Reporting helps protect not just you — but others too.



4. Why You Don’t Have to "Just Accept It"


👉 A lot of people feel pressure to stay silent, laugh it off, or "be cool" about it — but you don’t have to accept it to protect your image or career.

💥 Setting boundaries is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

💥 You are allowed to say, "No, this is not okay."



5. What If You’re in a Relationship?


👉 Receiving this kind of content can put you in a tough spot if you're in a relationship.

💥 But remember — you didn’t ask for it.


💡 If you feel safe, be open with your partner:

“Someone sent me something I didn’t want. I’ve blocked them and taken action.”


👉 Honesty helps prevent misunderstandings — and shows you’re not hiding anything.



6. When to Report It Legally


👉 In many places, sending unsolicited explicit content is against the law.

💥 If you want to report it to authorities, that is your right.


✅ How to Report:

  • Keep the evidence (screenshots).

  • Contact local police, cybercrime units, or legal advisors.

  • If you’re part of a club, speak to a trusted staff member, psychologist, or safeguarding officer for help.

💡 You don’t have to handle this alone.



7. How to Protect Yourself Online Going Forward


A. Check and tighten your privacy settings — who can message you, comment, or tag you. 

B. Limit or block messages from people you don’t know. 

C. Filter comments to avoid inappropriate content. 

D. Don’t be afraid to block anyone who makes you uncomfortable.


💥 Your account, your rules. You decide who gets access to you.



8. What to Say If You Need to Set a Boundary


👉 If you don’t want to block someone yet but need to make things clear, here are simple ways to say it:

  • “This is not okay. Don’t send me that again.”

  • “I’m not comfortable with this kind of message. Please stop.”

  • “I didn’t ask for this, and I don’t want to receive anything like it again.”

💥 If they cross that line again — block and report.



9. Final Words — You Deserve to Feel Safe


💥 Nobody has the right to invade your space. 

💥 You are not being "too sensitive" — you are setting boundaries. 

💥 You deserve respect and safety — always. 

💥 You are allowed to say no, to block, to report, and to protect yourself.



10. Take These Reminders With You


🟢 “My boundaries matter.” 

🟢 “I don’t owe anyone access to me.” 

🟢 “If I don’t want it, I don’t have to accept it.” 

🟢 “Protecting myself is not weakness — it’s strength.” 

🟢 “I deserve to feel safe online and offline.”




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