In Spain, the possession, distribution, or production of illicit images involving minors — commonly referred to as child sexual abuse material (CSAM) — is not just unethical. It is a criminal offense punishable by severe penalties, even if the images are not shared but simply stored on a device.

According to Spanish law, any visual content depicting individuals under 18 in sexually explicit or exploitative contexts is strictly illegal. The law is uncompromising — and rightly so.

But what happens if you discover or suspect such material on someone else’s device?
Maybe you have suspicions about a locked phone or hidden files.
Maybe you’ve seen enough to feel sick in your gut but unsure what to do next.

Here’s what you need to know:

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🚨 What To Do Immediately:

If you find or suspect any form of child sexual abuse material:

1. Do NOT delete or forward the images.
   • Doing so can be considered distribution under the law.
   • Even with good intentions, forwarding can put you at legal risk.
2. Secure the device if you can do so safely.
   • If you feel threatened or unsafe, do not confront the owner of the device. Prioritize your safety.
3. Go directly to the Guardia Civil or Policía Nacional.
   • Hand over the device or share your concerns. Spanish law enforcement has a dedicated cybercrime unittrained to investigate such matters.
4. Request a written report or confirmation of your statement.
   • This ensures you are on record as a reporter, not a participant.

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🧠 Why This Matters Psychologically:

Behind every illicit image of a child is a real child. A real human being whose body, innocence, and trust were violated. These aren’t just “images” — they are evidence of abuse. Every time such material is downloaded, stored, or shared, the abuse is prolonged.

Psychologically, survivors of this kind of abuse often live with deep trauma, complex PTSD, shame, and long-lasting relational wounds. The knowledge that their image may still be circulating is like a wound that never fully closes.

By handing over a device or reporting suspicions, you are:

✅ Protecting current and future victims
✅ Stopping the cycle of abuse
✅ Potentially preventing further criminal activity
✅ Taking a powerful stand against silence and complicity

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⚖️ Spanish Legal Context:

Under Spanish Criminal Code:

• Possession of child sexual abuse material can result in 1 to 5 years imprisonment
• Production or distribution may lead to up to 9 years in prison
• Increased penalties apply if the offender is in a position of trust (e.g., teacher, caregiver, partner)

Authorities have increasingly cracked down on these crimes, with recent arrests making headlines for distribution through messaging apps, cloud storage, and even dark web activity.

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🔒 But What If the Phone Is Locked?

If the phone is locked but you have reason to believe there may be illegal images stored:

• Still take it to the Guardia Civil or Policía Nacional.
• Let the professionals investigate — you don’t need to prove anything; you only need to raise the concern.

You are not invading privacy — you are protecting children.

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💬 Final Thoughts:

It can be deeply disturbing to find these kinds of images, especially if it’s someone you know or once trusted. But silence allows abuse to continue. Taking action — even when it’s difficult — is a profound act of courage, integrity, and compassion.

🔹 Trust your instincts.
🔹 Don’t doubt your gut.
🔹 You could be the reason someone is saved from a lifetime of trauma.

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If this post raises difficult emotions or triggers past experiences for you, please reach out to a qualified mental health professional or abuse support organization. You are not alone.

Let’s keep children safe. Let’s speak up.

#ProtectChildren #StopAbuse #GuardiaCivil #SpanishLaw #CSA #TraumaAwareness #TherapistPerspective #SocialResponsibility #EmotionalIntelligence #PsychologicalSafety

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— Linda C J Turner

Trauma Therapist | Neuroscience & Emotional Intelligence Practitioner | Advocate for Women’s Empowerment