Safety first
“You are not in trouble. We are going to deal with this carefully.”
When harmful images exist online, speed and caution both matter.
This page helps parents understand safe image removal pathways without spreading the content further.
When images, fake images, screenshots, or deepfakes are being shared or threatened, parents need to act quickly — but the wrong action can expose the child further. This page keeps the order simple.
Do not make more copies than necessary.
Focus on preserving key details and using official removal/reporting tools.
Do not publicly post the image.
Do not forward it to other parents or school groups.
Do not upload it somewhere unsafe for “proof.”
Do not shame the child.
Use official reporting and removal tools.
Use official removal pathways as quickly as possible. Keep records of where the content appeared, who shared it, and any threats or messages connected to it.
Do not pay.
Do not send more images.
Do not negotiate alone.
Do not let the child handle the threat alone.
Save threat messages and move into reporting.
A fake image can still be harmful. It can be used for bullying, humiliation, blackmail, social damage, or sexual harassment.
Save platform details, usernames, links, dates, threats, and context.
Do not spread the fake image further.
Report the content to the platform.
Use official image-based abuse or child safety pathways where appropriate.
“You are not in trouble. We are going to deal with this carefully.”
“The person sharing, threatening, or creating this content is the one doing wrong.”
“Do not reply to them right now. We need to save the details and report properly.”
“You do not have to carry this alone. I am glad you told me.”
If the child is in immediate danger, use emergency services.
If there is sexual exploitation or child sexual safety concern, use child safety reporting pathways.
If image-based abuse is involved in Australia, use eSafety.
If an image was taken when the person was under 18 and may be online, consider NCMEC Take It Down.
If threats, blackmail, or sextortion are involved, act quickly and preserve evidence.
Image removal is urgent, but panic can make the content spread further.
Do not amplify the harm while trying to stop it.
Preserve details. Use official tools. Keep the child supported.