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 Maine, sexting laws prohibit the creation, possession, and distribution of sexually explicit images by and of minors, which is anyone under the age of 18. When an adult sends sexually explicit material to a minor or when a minor sends such material to an adult or another minor, it can be considered a criminal offense. These activities may fall under various legal categories, including the distribution of obscene materials, sexual exploitation of minors, and child pornography laws. Maine's statutes address these issues in the context of protecting minors from exploitation and may categorize offenses as misdemeanors or felonies based on the severity and circumstances of the case. Convictions can lead to significant penalties, including incarceration and mandatory registration as a sex offender. It is important for individuals in Maine to understand that while sexting between consenting adults is generally legal, any involvement of minors in sexting activities is subject to strict legal prohibitions and severe consequences.