Anyone can become a victim of online abuse, requiring just a few clicks and an AI program, and the world can suddenly see inappropriate images designed for any person. With the ease of deepfake technology—creating realistic and misleading images, videos, and audio using AI—and experts' predictions that these programs will continue to improve, it's crucial to understand that online abuse poses a real threat. Some experts believe online abuse has become more common than physical abuse in social circles, meaning it's time for everyone—users, social media platforms, and parliament members—to take it seriously. Digital violence is a form of abuse committed through digital means, from social media platforms to email and messaging apps and dating sites. It's important to realize that even when this abuse occurs online, it doesn't lessen its reality. Common forms of digital violence include cyberstalking—such as constantly monitoring someone's movements through digital means, stalking them on social media, or unwanted contact—and cyberbullying, which involves systematically insulting, threatening, or intimidating someone online. The dissemination of non-consensual, deepfake-generated inappropriate videos of someone is also a form of digital abuse. Other ways to harm someone online include sharing their sensitive personal data without consent, such as their address, phone number, or workplace, which is known as 'doxing,' and creating a fake account for someone, another form of online abuse. Germany's Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Seniors, Women, and Youth states that digital violence is not a personal matter or a minor crime; it has severe consequences, including dangerous psychological effects like anxiety, social isolation, and sleep disorders. Therefore, it is essential to speak up when noticing someone is being targeted online, and victims should seek help if they can. There have long been counseling centers for abuse victims in many countries, providing 24/7 expert support for free, confidential advice and consultations, in person, by phone, or online. Many organizations also offer legal support and accompany the affected person to the police when they wish to file a criminal complaint. So, what steps should be taken when someone is a victim of online abuse? If you suspect you are a victim of online violence, there are several steps you can take. First, document the evidence. Immediately take a screenshot of anything that constitutes abusive content. This helps document evidence even if the perpetrator deletes the images later. Make sure to capture the date and time of posting, the username, and the website URL, if possible. Second, report it. Most social media platforms (like Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp) have a reporting feature that allows users to report abusive content and request its removal. However, you must save the report, for example, by taking a screenshot. Third, protect sensitive content. The free tool StopNCII can create a kind of digital fingerprint for images or videos on a user's device, which helps prevent them from being shared without consent. Fourth, file a complaint. Although filing a police report may not be easy, it should always be advised. It's best to have someone accompany you for emotional support, and in many countries, you can file a complaint online. Digital violence is a form of abuse committed through digital means, from social media platforms to apps.
