Challenging Gendered Digital Harm Research Report
How do women and gender-diverse people in Canada experience digital harm? How do we create safer online spaces?
The Challenging Gendered Digital Harm research report looks at the impacts – particularly among underserved communities – and recommends strategies for change.
The report also explores public perceptions, and gaps in resources to support survivors and organizations facing digital harm.
This research reveals that digital harm is a pervasive issue and requires an urgent response.
Women, girls, and gender-diverse people deserve to feel safe and empowered to fully engage in online spaces without fear of being targeted because of their identities.
Key Findings
How Common Is Digital Harm?
It’s widespread.
61% of women and gender-diverse people in Canada have faced gendered digital harm, compared to 53% of the general population.
Over 70% of these incidents have occurred in the last three years.
Who Is Most Targeted?
Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, youth (18-25), and people with disabilities are the most frequent targets.
Indigenous women often face harm due to their identity, and Black women experience harassment linked to race, gender, and skin tone.
Women and gender-diverse people with disabilities are twice as likely to have false information spread about them.
What Are Common Types of Harm?
Harassment, hate speech, unwanted sexual images, stalking, and account hacking are the most common.
55% of perpetrators are men, and in 23% of cases, the survivor doesn’t know the perpetrator’s gender.
How Does Digital Harm Impact Mental Health?
43% of survivors suffer serious mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Youth (18-25) and underserved groups are twice as likely to contemplate or engage in self-harm or suicide because of digital harm.
How Does Digital Harm Impact Online Presence?
Silencing and disengagement is common:
Over 50% of women and gender-diverse people reduce their online presence or self-censor to avoid harm.
Many leave platforms, especially when discussing gender, race, or social justice topics.
How Are Gender Equality Organizations Impacted?
88% of gender equality organizations face digital threats (hacking, harassment, etc.), and 82% focus on gender-based violence.
However, more than 60% don’t have the resources to address digital harm, and many have seen their employees or volunteers targeted.
How Effective Are Existing Recourses For Digital Harm?
48% of women and gender-diverse people experience digital harm on social media, but reporting it often leads to no action.
60% of racialized women and gender-diverse people believe law enforcement is ineffective, and 71% feel social media should have stronger protections as public spaces.
This report was produced as part of the project, Challenging Gendered Digital Harm. The project addresses digital hate, harassment and abuse against diverse women, girls, and gender-diverse people in Canada through national research, an online curriculum and tools; and convening civil society and decision makers to mobilize for systems change.
