In modern society, young individuals have developed the habit of faking their age by presenting a smaller age than their actual age especially with the increased use of text, apps and social media channels. Of the deceptive behaviors that occur in dating contexts, deception about age in internet-mediated communications may be especially risky, especially when one of the parties is engaging in sexting or other forms of Sexual Communication. This article focuses on such factors as potential dangers, credibility and necessity of truth in online exchange or interaction and ways by which the potential dangers or risks can be eliminated.
The Risks of Lying About Age:
Legal Consequences:
Sexting is prohibited if the recipient is under the legal age, and depending on the state or country, even if a teenager claims to be the legal age, it is still a crime to send a sext or even engage in a sexual text conversation. Age is also well protected by law, and thus, any form of dishonesty in this aspect is heavily punishable by the law.
Emotional and Psychological Impact:
If one starts having intimate communication with another person under some pretense, the other party is likely going to be emotionally hurt. If the person who was deceived discovers the real truth he or she will start feeling that he or she was betrayed, they will be shameful and have a hurt feeling.
Exploitation and Abuse:
However, when people cause a deception concerning their ages, they come across certain doors to manipulation as well as exploitation. Some predators may look for such people who perhaps are faking their age or who have low understanding of the dangers associated with such discussions.
How to Protect Yourself:
Honesty is Key:
Many young people try to minimize risks and avoid dangerous situations; thus, the truth is the best strategy here – always be honest with your age and intentions online. I could endanger the lives of other people if they follow my advice, based on which they will make a wrong decision, fully trusting me.
Be Cautious in Online Interactions:
Do not talk to strangers on-line, it is always safe to be careful. As for age or location do not disclose it unless you are completely sure the conversation is not fake.
Educate and Empower:
People of all ages should be informed on the dangers of sexting and electronic messaging. Current crop of schools, parents, and the communities should give direction on how to prevent being a victim of LOVE in the INTERNET.
Conclusion: It has been observed that, getting involved in an online tale and giving wrong information regarding age may result in entailing legal and emotional consequences. It is crucial to explain to everyone, but it’s particularly important for youth, guidelines of civilized communication in the Internet with regard to honesty, non-interference with personal space and respecting other people’s opinion. It depends on the ability to raise awareness and increase people’s responsibility for each other, so that the Internet was not the arena of violation and shameful cases but a highly civilized and safe space.