Gendered Disinformation

Gendered Disinformation is a targeted form of online abuse that spreads false or misleading information specifically designed to discredit or harm individuals based on their gender. It often exploits societal stereotypes and misogyny to undermine credibility, portray women as untrustworthy or incapable, and discourage their participation in public life. This form of digital violence can escalate into offline harassment, reinforce harmful gender norms, and create significant emotional, psychological, and professional harm.

Why it’s harmful:

  • Erodes women’s credibility and undermines their public participation.
  • Can lead to severe emotional and psychological distress.
  • Amplifies offline harassment and real-world violence.
Research Methodology Phase 1 Research Methodology Phase 2

What You Can Do

Document it

Save screenshots, links, and other evidence. This can be critical if you decide to report it.

Strengthen your digital security

Review your privacy settings, secure your accounts, and consider using two-factor authentication to prevent further attacks.

Report it

Many platforms have dedicated tools for reporting disinformation. You can also seek legal advice if the harassment escalates.

Take care of yourself

Reach out to someone you trust and prioritize your mental well-being. Remember, you are not alone.

Know Your Rights

Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (CMA 1998) – Section 233
This law makes it a crime to create, post, or share content that is obscene, indecent, false, or offensive, with the intent to annoy, threaten, or harass another person. If the disinformation against you involves false or harmful content, this section can apply.

Penal Code – Section 499 (Criminal Defamation)
If someone spreads false information to damage your reputation, this section allows for criminal charges against the person responsible. It covers statements made in writing, speech, or online.

Penal Code – Section 509 (Insulting the Modesty of a Woman)
This law criminalizes actions, words, or gestures intended to insult the modesty of a person, including online harassment that uses sexualized or demeaning language.

Anti-Sexual Harassment Act 2022
This act covers unwanted conduct of a sexual nature, including digitally-assisted harassment. If the disinformation involves sexualized attacks, this law may be relevant.

Defamation Act 1957 (Civil Defamation)
If false information has harmed your reputation, you can also take civil action to seek compensation for the damage caused.