PanicStation.org
UK USA
us Sexual violence & highly sensitive situations unsolicited explicit images • unwanted sexual images • unwanted nudes • unsolicited nudes • receiving dick pics • explicit images in dms • sexual harassment online • harassment by messages • asked them to stop • blocked but they return • explicit photos from someone • repeated sexual messages • dating app explicit pictures • explicit messages won’t stop • unknown sender explicit pics • coworker sent explicit images • explicit images at work • scared to open messages • worried they’ll escalate • threats after refusing

What to do if…
you keep receiving unsolicited explicit images and it will not stop after you ask

Short answer

Stop contact fast (block/report), tighten your message/privacy settings, and save a small record so you can report to the platform, your workplace, or law enforcement if you choose.

Do not do these things

  • Do not keep replying to “make them understand” — repeated responses often feed the behavior.
  • Do not forward the images to others for advice (it can spread harm and create risk for you and them).
  • Do not click unknown links, download attachments, or move to another platform “to sort it out.”
  • Do not post the person’s info publicly as your first move — it can escalate retaliation or harassment.
  • Do not assume you must handle it alone — getting support is an option even if you never report.

What to do now

  1. Take a 60-second reset. Put the device down, breathe, and pick one goal: “Stop the contact.”
  2. Cut off the sender on the platform you’re on.
    • Block the account(s).
    • Report the content as harassment / sexual content / unsolicited nudity.
    • If the platform lets you, report the message/image and the profile.
  3. Make it harder for new accounts to reach you (choose 2–3 settings).
    • Limit DMs to contacts/friends/followers only.
    • Turn off message requests, or filter unknown senders.
    • Temporarily set your profile to private and restrict who can comment/tag/DM.
  4. Save minimal evidence (only if you can do it without re-triggering yourself).
    • Screenshot the thread showing the username/handle, timestamps, and any threats or coercion.
    • If you already sent “Do not contact me again,” capture that once.
    • Put the screenshots somewhere you don’t have to see them again.
  5. If this is connected to work, use workplace protections.
    • If a coworker, supervisor, customer, or client is sending this, report it to HR or a manager using your employer’s harassment policy.
    • If you’re worried about retaliation, keep communication in writing (email/HR portal) and ask for a confidential process.
  6. Escalate if there are threats, stalking, extortion, or you feel unsafe.
    • If you’re in immediate danger: call 911.
    • If there are threats, doxxing, stalking, or coercion, consider reporting to local law enforcement.
    • If there’s sextortion, demands for money, or other cyber-enabled crime, you can also file a report with the FBI’s IC3 portal.
  7. If any child/minor is involved, report immediately through child-safety channels.
    • Do not investigate, negotiate, or share the content.
    • Report suspected online child exploitation via NCMEC’s CyberTipline, and call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.
  8. Get support that won’t pressure you.
    • If this feels violating or you’re spiraling, confidential sexual violence support services can help you stabilise and decide what (if anything) you want to report.

What can wait

  • You do not need to decide today whether this “counts” as a crime or whether you want to make a formal report.
  • You do not need to gather every message or keep re-opening the images to document them.
  • You do not need to confront the sender or try to change their behavior directly.
  • You do not need to overhaul your whole online life — focus on stopping contact first.

Important reassurance

Unwanted explicit images can land like a shock: disgust, panic, numbness, or anger are all common. This is a boundary violation, and it makes sense if you feel thrown off. Your job right now is not to “handle it perfectly” — it’s to reduce contact and protect yourself.

Scope note

This is first steps only: stabilise, stop the contact, and preserve options. If the behavior is persistent, connected to someone you know, involves power at work, includes threats, or escalates toward stalking or extortion, a specialist advocate can help you choose safer next steps.

Important note

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and reporting options vary by state and by platform. If you’re unsure what applies, it’s still appropriate to block/report on the platform and seek confidential support while you decide whether to involve your employer or law enforcement.

Additional Resources
Support us