Digital violence: How to protect yourself and where to look for help?

In today’s digital world, violence doesn’t only have to be physical or verbal. It can also manifest through digital channels, which puts many women in a vulnerable position. In this blog, we’ll look at digital violence, how to recognize and protect yourself, and how and where you can get help. It is important to remember that violence is never the victim’s fault and that help is out there.

What is digital violence?

Digital violence includes using digital technology, like the Internet, social networks, mobile telephones, or other communication technology, for harassment, threats, or invasion of privacy. This form of violence can be extremely subtle, but it still leaves a big mark.

Warning signs

Recognizing digital violence can be challenging, but there are certain signs to pay attention to:

- Constant unwanted contact: Sending messages, calls, or emails without your consent.

- Publishing personal information: Sharing your photos, address, or other personal information without your permission.

- Presence in discussion rooms or groups without your knowledge: Hidden presence in online gatherings you organized.

- Threats through digital channels: Receiving threatening messages or comments on social media.

- Tracking digital activities: Using technology to track your movements or activities online.

How to protect yourself?

There are a few steps that you can take to protect yourself from digital violence:

1. Strengthen your online security settings: Make sure your social media profiles are private and only share information with people who you trust.

2. Regularly update passwords: Use strong passwords that are hard to guess and change them regularly.

3. Be careful with sharing information: Think twice before sharing personal information or photographs in public forums.

4. Use blocking and reporting options: Use blocking and reporting functions on social media against users who harass you.

5. Save evidence: Take screenshots or save correspondence that you can use to testify to digital violence. This can be helpful if you decide to report the abuse.

Who to contact?

If you suspect that you are the victim of digital violence, it is important to know that you are not alone and that help is out there:

- Contact local women’s rights organizations: They can provide you with advice and resources on how to protect yourself.

- Report abuse to platforms: Many digital platforms have procedures to report harassment.

- Consider legal action: In more serious cases, legal action may be necessary. Talk to a lawyer for more information.

If you are in immediate danger...

If you feel that you are in immediate danger from digital violence, immediately contact local emergency services. Your safety is most important.

Conclusion

Digital violence is an ever-present threat in our connected world, but there are ways to protect yourself and to get the support you need. Remember, violence is never your fault and you never have to face it alone. Support is there, you only need to ask.

IF YOU ARE OR A FRIEND IS IN DANGER – CALL THE HOTLINE FOR VICTIMS OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE:

0800 21 000