Nudes and conversations on dating apps do not count as consent - the new legal guidelines explained

Nude photographs and conversations on dating apps do not count as sexual consent, according to new legal guidelines.

Prosectutors are to be given a list of myths and stereotypes they should be prepared to challenge when handing cases dealing with rape and sexual assault.

The new list is presented in the Crown Prosecution Service’s (CPS) guidelines for lawyers. This is the first time in eight years that the guidelines have been fully updated.

What do the new legal guidelines mean?

The new legal guidance now advises that the sending of sexual images or messages should not be considered confirmation that the sender wants or consents to sex.

The guidance also includes advice regarding dating apps, and debunks the theory that meeting up with someone after messaging on an app counts towards consent.

The “type of clothing a person is wearing” and “flirting” are not indicators of sexual consent.

The law also stresses that “a person being intoxicated” is not grounds for sexual assault, and their attacker would be held responsible.

No such thing as ‘blanket consent’

CPS rape lead, Siobhan Blake, explained the changes and said the sending of explicit photos and the use of dating apps should not be taken as “blanket consent” for sexual contact.