Women in journalism vulnerable to cyber abuse

Staff Reporter :

Women engaged in “ideological” professions, such as journalism and human rights activism, are facing a higher rate of cyberattacks, according to a survey by the non-governmental organisation Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE).

The survey also highlights that these online abuses are having a “profound” impact on the real lives of the victims.

During an information-sharing session held at the VOICE office in Dhaka’s Shyamoli on Saturday, the organisation’s Project Manager, Promiti Prova Chowdhury, presented the key findings. The survey analysed 13 incidents that occurred after October.

Promiti stated, “Women involved in ideological work, such as journalists, human rights activists, or those making significant contributions in their respective fields, are more frequently subjected to cyberattacks.”

She added that women participating in Anti-discrimination Student Movements have faced widespread harassment on social media, which has severely affected their real lives.

“Since the change in government, many have refrained from discussing political ideologies or exercising free speech online,” she noted.

The session also revealed that over 60,000 people have sought assistance from the Police Cyber Support for Women (PCSW) over the past three and a half years, up until May 2024.

Of the victims, 41 percent had their personal information exposed online or experienced doxxing, 18 percent had their Facebook accounts hacked, 17 percent were blackmailed, and 9 percent were harassed “in disguise”.

The Executive Director of VOICE, Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, stated, “Raising public awareness is one of the most effective tools in combating sexual harassment in the digital world.”

He emphasised, “Raising awareness about the different types of online violence, its impact, and the related laws is crucial. Social media campaigns and workshops are essential to inform the public.”