In general
In Switzerland, three forms of pornography are prohibited and therefore illegal: pornographic depictions involving children, animals and violence.
“Sexting” between teenagers is a particular problem. “Sexting” is sending suggestive selfies using a smartphone. The person who takes the picture not only loses control over further distribution when they send a nude image; there is also a risk that the picture will be forwarded or used as a weapon for bullying.
Even taking a photo or video may be punishable if it has sexual context and the person depicted is under 18 years of age. Photographing and filming clearly sexual acts between persons under the age of 16 is fundamentally considered child pornography and is therefore illegal.
Tips
- If you find out that someone you know has a problem with illegal pornography, be brave and talk to them about their illegal activities.
- Do not distribute illegal pornographic content by forwarding it or showing it to anyone. The distribution of such content is also illegal.
- If you are attracted to illegal pornography, be brave and talk to someone you trust about it. This may prevent you from committing a criminal act.