Byte-Sized Horrors: A Look Into the internet’s Assault on Women
This week, we delve into cyber violence against women, focusing on its prevalence, impact, and possible solutions.
In this episode, you’ll be introduced to the concept of cyber violence, explaining its various forms, such as online threats, harassment, and non-consensual sharing of private information. We present staggering statistics showcasing how this form of violence disproportionately affects young women, emphasizing the psychological and emotional toll it takes, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and isolation. We also stress the disturbing nature of the attacks, ranging from abusive language to threats of sexual violence, and delve into the perpetrators' sources, including anonymous social media users, peers, and former partners.
To provide a firsthand account of cyber violence, we invited Morgan Mayer, a TikTok influencer known for her no-nonsense approach to wedding planning as @nobsbride, to share her experience with substantial online hate. Morgan shares her experiences of facing online backlash, highlighting the emotional and mental toll it took on her and how she has coped with it over time. She provides insights into why social media is a breeding ground for bullying and offers advice for those facing similar situations.
As always, we conclude the episode with what measures are being taken to address cyber violence, including legal options available to survivors, such as filing complaints and pursuing legal action. Additionally, we discuss initiatives like the STAR Framework by the Center for Countering Digital Hate, aimed at holding social media platforms accountable and ensuring safety, transparency, and responsibility.