Reporting to Platforms
Reporting to Platforms If you’re experiencing online gender-based violence, most platforms have reporting tools to help you take action. Here’s how you can report abusive content on major platforms:
Making a Police Report
Making a Police Report Filing a police report can feel intimidating, especially if it’s your first time. Unfortunately, many survivors fear being dismissed, blamed, or mistreated. However, police are legally required to accept and file your report under Section 3(3) of the Police Act. Where to File Types of Reports What to Include in Your…
Gendered Disinformation
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…
Surveillance & Stalking
Surveillance & Stalking Online surveillance happens when someone monitors your digital activity—whether by tracking your posts, messages, or online movements. This is often used to harass or control women, girls, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Stalking can also extend to digital spaces, making victims feel unsafe even in their own homes. What You Can Do Assess Your…
Cyberflashing
Cyberflashing Cyberflashing is when someone sends unwanted sexually explicit images—like photos or videos of genitals—without your consent. It can happen through social media, messaging apps, or even Bluetooth and AirDrop. Like public flashing, it’s a violation of your personal space and can feel deeply unsettling. What You Can Do Block & Filter Most platforms let…
Threats of Rape, Physical & Sexual Violence
Threats of Rape, Physical & Sexual Violence Sexual violence and rape threats are alarmingly common online, especially against women. These threats—often made anonymously—are just as serious as real-world violence, even if they happen in digital spaces. What You Can Do Assess Your Safety If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts. Consider relocating temporarily and inform…
Doxxing
Doxxing Doxxing is when someone shares your personal information—like your name, address, phone number, or workplace—online without your consent, often to embarrass, threaten, or harm you. Even seemingly harmless details can be pieced together and weaponized. What You Can Do Report It Alert the platform where your info was shared and ask friends to report…
Sextortion & Blackmailing
Sextortion & Blackmailing Sextortion happens when someone threatens to share your private or intimate images to force you into giving them money, personal information, or even sexual favors. This form of blackmail preys on fear and shame, disproportionately affecting women, girls, and LGBTQ individuals. Some cases start as dating scams, where the perpetrator gains your…
Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images
Non-Consensual Sharing of Intimate Images (NCII) Also known as “revenge porn,” but this term is misleading. NCII happens when private photos or videos are shared without consent, regardless of how they were originally taken. Why it’s harmful: What You Can Do Document it Save screenshots or links if you can. Ask a trusted friend for…
Impersonation & Identity Theft
Impersonation & Identity Theft Impersonation happens when someone pretends to be you online—creating fake accounts, sending messages in your name, or even using your identity to harass others. This is often linked to other forms of online abuse, like spreading false rumors or damaging your reputation. What You Can Do Alert Others Let your contacts…