During the COVID-19 pandemic, online platforms might seem to be safer places to work and socialise, but online abuse is expected to rise – and women are at a higher risk.
A study of Instagram influencers has found most employ a highly sexualised aesthetic drawn from mainstream adult film. And many are subject to sexual harassment, ranging from aggressive comments to physical threats.
France’s #MeToo backlash has revealed just how deeply rooted sexism is in the country. Disguised as flirtation or child’s play, sexual harassment begins as early as elementary school.
Some people still think “trolling” refers to harmless fun. If we want to reduce abusive online behaviour, let’s start by getting our definitions right.
Eroding civility is not just an American phenomenon; it’s global. But it’s time for a return to civility as we reflect on how we will be judged and remembered when the dust of history settles upon us.
It could seem attractive to try to teach computers to detect harassment, threats and abusive language. But it’s much more difficult than it might appear.
Eliminating anonymity is often touted as a solution to hostile online behaviour, but research shows that agreeable people who are more likely to leave positive comments prefer to do it anonymously.
The media is doing the public a disservice by using the word “trolling” to describe more serious behaviours that should be defined as online harassment and abuse.
On Q&A, panellist Faustina Agolley questioned whether there were laws protecting against revenge porn in Australia. As it turns out, it all depends on where you live.
Like many other advancements in communication technology, social media has a good, a bad and an ugly side when it comes to its relationship with crime, criminal justice and the law.
Communications Minister Mitch Fifield told Q&A that the Children’s eSafety Commissioner has investigated 11,000 cases of cyberbullying and can fine social media firms $17,000 a day. Is that true?
A case in Sydney is the latest instance in which the powers-that-be contribute to the widespread victim-blaming and perpetrator-exonerating in relation to cyber violence against women and girls.
The public outing of a number of high profile scientists in sexual harassment cases shows the current system of protecting women isn’t working. But there is a solution.