Six tips to protect yourself and others against Online gender-based violence (OGBV)
Online Gender-Based Violence (#GBV) refers to harmful actions targeted at individuals or groups based on their gender (male & female), occurring in digital spaces. This form of violence leverages technology, including social media, messaging platforms, emails, and other online tools, to perpetrate abuse, intimidation, or discrimination.
Online #GBV mirrors and exacerbates offline gender inequalities, perpetuating a cycle of discrimination and violence. In Kenya, increased internet access has highlighted the prevalence of this issue, particularly against women and activists.
Addressing online GBV is crucial for fostering safe and inclusive digital spaces that promote equality and freedom of expression.
Here are some tips to protect yourself and others against Online gender-based violence (OGBV)
1. Educate Yourself and Others
- Understand the different forms of online GBV, such as cyberbullying, doxxing, trolling, and online harassment.
- Share knowledge with peers, especially on recognizing and addressing harmful behaviours online.
2. Strengthen Privacy and Security Settings
- Regularly update social media and online privacy settings to control who can view or interact with your content.
- Use strong passwords and two-factor authentication, and be cautious with personal information sharing.
3. Report and Block Abusive Users
- Use platform tools to report abusive content or accounts. Most social media sites have mechanisms to report GBV-related harassment.
- Block users who engage in threatening or harmful behaviour to protect their mental well-being.
4. Be Mindful of Content Sharing
- Avoid sharing sensitive information or photos that could be used maliciously.
- Think critically before resharing content, especially if it might perpetuate harmful stereotypes or behaviours.
5. Support Victims and Promote Positive Online Behavior
- Offer support to those experiencing online GBV by listening and directing them to appropriate resources or reporting mechanisms.
- Advocate for a positive digital culture by promoting respectful and inclusive communication online.
6. Engage in Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns
- Participate in or initiate online campaigns that raise awareness about online GBV and promote safety.
- Collaborate with organizations or individuals working to combat GBV to amplify their efforts.
