Private photos, public harm: A parent’s guide to youth NCDII
Have you heard of NCDII?
The non-consensual distribution of intimate images (NCDII) happens when someone shares an intimate image or video of another person without permission.
This can include images that were:
- Shared during a romantic relationship;
- Shared as a joke, dare, or challenge;
- Sent under pressure or coercion;
- Created without someone’s permission (e.g. AI-generated images or “deepfakes,” or a photo taken in a changeroom or bathroom).
Why do youth share intimate images?
Youth may share intimate images for many reasons. Sometimes, this happens in a romantic relationship or while experimenting.
But these images can be forwarded to others impulsively or maliciously (e.g. to hurt the other person or as bravado among peers), with or without the knowledge of the affected youth. They may also be shared publicly online.
The issue of non-consensually sharing images is growing. Cybertip.ca - Canada’s tipline for reporting online sexual abuse and exploitation – received 436 reports related to NCDII in 2024 (seven involved the use of AI). In 2025, youth reported 527 NCDII cases, 19 of which were facilitated by AI.
How does it affect youth?
Youth who have had a sexual image or video shared – whether posted online or forwarded directly to others – can experience significant distress. In addition to feeling violated, youth often experience fear and anxiety about how their peers, friends, family members, and other significant adults will react and who will see the images. Youth’s biggest concern is having the images or videos removed and managed in a way that reduces the risk of further sharing or posting online.
What can I do to help my child?
If your child has been affected by NCDII, here are a few things to keep in mind to help both of you navigate the situation. The way you react to what has happened to your child makes a difference. A supportive, compassionate response can help a young person begin to cope and heal, while a negative or judgmental response can compound their distress and emotional harm.
- Reassure your child: Remind them they’re not alone, and you’ll face this together.
- Listen without judgment: Your instinct might be to ask why the image was taken or shared but try to avoid leading with those questions.
- Create a safe environment: Even if you’re feeling worried, angry, or disappointed, your child needs steadiness and care.
- Separate this incident from your child: This experience doesn’t define them.
- Stay hopeful: This reinforces to your child they’ll get through this experience.
External supports and resources available:
Instances of youth NCDII may also impact an affected youth’s school environment.
Youth NCDII: A guide for schools is a tool your child’s school may have available to help support your child while away from home. It’s designed to support school personnel to respond to NCDII in ways that prioritize a youth’s safety, dignity, and well-being.
C3P’s Project Arachnid tool may also help proactively scan the internet for the intimate images of your child. For more information about this resource and others, visit ProjectArachnid.ca or connect with our Support Services team.