Digital violence, also known as online or cyber violence, refers to acts of harm, abuse, or harassment that occur through digital channels such as the Internet, social media platforms, or electronic devices. It involves using technology as a means to target, intimidate, or harm individuals or groups.
Creating awareness, reporting abusive content, and supporting victims are essential steps in combating digital violence and fostering a safer and more inclusive digital environment.
- Contacting you constantly through different channels and getting angry if you don’t answer right away.
- Sending offensive or intimidating messages.
- Sending unwanted material such as nude pictures or sexual messages.
- Pressuring you to describe sex or take nude pictures.
- Breaking into your accounts or requiring the passwords.
- Regularly reading your messages or requiring you to show them.
- Demanding to see your social media contacts and messages.
- Stalking your online actions and history.
- Making you delete friends or contacts from social media.
- Controlling your social media posts and restricting your use of the technology.
- Publishing things about you on social media or tagging in photos without permission.
- Taking photographs or filming you secretly or without permission.
- Threatening to spread nude photos of you.
- Tracking your movement with a location tracker and/or using spyware.
Digital violence can have severe consequences on individuals' mental and emotional well-being, reputation, and overall quality of life. Promoting digital ethics, online safety, and responsible behaviour is important to prevent and address digital violence.
Online exploitation refers to the use of digital platforms, online services or communication technologies to recruit, control, advertise, exploit or profit from victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation.
Overcoming digital violence
Overcoming digital violence may require professional assistance and legal support. Reach out to professionals, counsellors, or helplines specialising in digital violence or online safety for additional guidance and resources. Here are some steps that can be taken:
Educate yourself about digital violence, its forms, and its impact. Stay informed about online safety, privacy settings, and ways to protect yourself and your personal information.
Regularly review and adjust your privacy settings on social media platforms and other online accounts. Limit the amount of personal information you share publicly.
If you experience digital violence, report the abusive content or behaviour to the platform or website administrators. Block or unfollow individuals who engage in abusive behaviour to limit your exposure.
Keep records, screenshots, or any evidence of digital violence, as it may be useful for reporting or legal purposes.
Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support organisations who can provide emotional support and guidance. It's important to share your experience and seek assistance when needed.
If digital violence involves threats, harassment, or illegal activities, consider reporting it to law enforcement authorities. They can investigate and take appropriate action.
Encourage digital literacy and responsible online behaviour among peers, family members, and communities. Share information about digital violence, its impact, and ways to prevent and address it.
Support initiatives and campaigns that aim to combat digital violence, raise awareness, and promote digital ethics. Advocate for stronger laws and policies to address online harassment and protect individuals from digital violence.