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 Indiana, sexting laws primarily address the creation, possession, and distribution of sexually explicit images by minors, which is considered a form of child exploitation. Under Indiana Code 35-42-4-4, it is illegal for anyone, including minors, to possess, create, or distribute sexual images of a person under 18 years old. This can be prosecuted under child pornography statutes. For adults, sending such material to minors or using such material to seduce a minor can result in charges such as dissemination of matter harmful to minors (Indiana Code 35-49-3-3) or child solicitation (Indiana Code 35-42-4-6). The severity of the offense can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on factors such as the age of the individuals involved and the nature of the conduct. Convictions can lead to significant legal consequences, including incarceration and mandatory sex offender registration. It's important for both adults and minors to understand the legal implications of sexting in Indiana to avoid potential criminal charges.