The Impact of Online Abuse on Individuals and Society
In 2017, a young woman named Gwen faced a devastating situation when intimate videos of her were leaked online, leading to significant repercussions in her personal and professional life. This incident highlights the growing prevalence of technology-facilitated sexual violence, which is a serious issue affecting many individuals today.
The Rise of Image-Based Sexual Abuse
According to Aware’s Sexual Assault Care Centre (SACC), a significant portion of new cases of technology-facilitated sexual violence involve image-based sexual abuse. This includes behaviors such as the unauthorized creation and sharing of sexual or intimate content, as well as using these visuals to blackmail victims.
The Reality of Cyberbullying and Sexual Harassment Online
A survey conducted by SG Her Empowerment (SHE) revealed that nearly three in five individuals in Singapore have encountered cyberbullying or sexual harassment online, or know someone who has. This underscores the prevalence of online harm and the need for stronger measures to protect victims.
New Government Initiatives to Address Online Harm
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong recently announced the establishment of a new government agency to provide faster recourse for victims of online harm, with new legislation expected to protect these individuals by 2025. These initiatives aim to create a safer online environment for all individuals in Singapore.
Steps to Take If You or Someone You Know is a Victim of Online Abuse
1. Supporting a Victim
Counsellor Diana Ng emphasizes the importance of offering practical help and emotional support to victims of online abuse. It is crucial to validate their feelings, watch for signs of distress, and refer them to appropriate mental health professionals for intervention.
2. Actions for Victims of Leaked Content
Victims of leaked intimate content are advised to seek support from friends, family, and mental health practitioners. It is also recommended to file a police report, seek assistance under the Online Criminal Harms Act, and reach out to organizations that provide counseling and legal assistance.
3. Job Interviews and Disclosure
Human resources expert Alvin Aloysius Goh and lawyer Renuka Chettiar both emphasize that victims are not obligated to disclose the leak during job interviews. Employers should not penalize victims for their personal experiences, and hiring decisions should be based on professional capabilities rather than personal history.
4. Understanding Wrongful Dismissal
According to lawyer Gerard Quek, it is generally illegal for an employer to dismiss an employee without just cause if their intimate content was leaked without consent. Employers must consider whether the content was intended for public dissemination and whether there was deliberate misconduct involved before taking any action.
Preventative Measures and Self-Care
To avoid falling victim to online abuse, individuals are encouraged to refrain from sharing intimate content with others, even if requested. It is also important to be cautious when recording oneself, as such content can easily be shared or leaked unintentionally. Seeking psychological interventions for emotional issues is essential to address underlying concerns.
Analysis of the Impact and Importance of Addressing Online Abuse
The prevalence of online abuse, particularly in the form of technology-facilitated sexual violence, cyberbullying, and image-based sexual abuse, highlights the urgent need for stronger measures to protect individuals in the digital age. The initiatives announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong signify a step towards creating a safer online environment for all individuals in Singapore.
By providing support for victims, implementing legislation to address online harm, and promoting awareness and prevention strategies, we can work towards combating online abuse and creating a more secure and respectful online community for everyone.