Dozens of children in Thanet who have sent nude images of themselves have fallen victim to a 'bait group' on Snapchat, it has been revealed.

Police have seen a surge in reports of sexual images being shared with large groups of people on social media sites - with more than 40 children being identified as having had nude selfies of them posted online in the district alone since the start of the year.

This has sparked a police warning about sexting trends, particularly surrounding the reports in Thanet, which police are investigating.

Parents could be prosecuted if their children take explicit photographs or videos of themselves or anyone else aged under 18.

So-called ‘Bait out’ pages or groups are being set up on social media sites and local young people are encouraged to share images and talk about other young people to shame and bully them.

Kent Police Supt Susie Harper said: “If a child’s mobile phone contract is in his or her parent’s name, then the parent can be liable for what the phone is used for, and any indecent material that is saved or sent from it.

“That could mean police turning up at the family home with a search warrant, property being seized, potential arrests and innocent people being suspected of serious offences.

“I’m not raising awareness to scaremonger, and our first priority is to safeguard young people and protect them from harm and there are many places we can signpost then to for independent help and advice.

“I also think it’s important for parents to be aware about the ways their children might be vulnerable to these things and what they can do about it.”

“I also think it’s important for parents to be aware about the ways their children might be vulnerable to these things and what they can do about it.”