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1 In 4 American Women Abused Online As Legal Protections Fail

Mar 08, 2025 - forbes.com
Recent research highlights that the online world poses significant risks for American women, particularly young and ethnic minority women. One in four women experience online abuse, with cyberbullying, doxxing, AI deepfakes, and sexual harassment being prevalent issues. Women of color and those aged 18–34 are most affected, with AI deepfakes and revenge porn having severe impacts on their mental health and financial wellbeing. The study, conducted by the National Organization for Women and Incogni, underscores the unique challenges digital spaces present to women, with mixed-race and Latina or Hispanic women experiencing the highest rates of abuse.

The research also points to significant gaps in U.S. federal law that fail to adequately protect women from online harassment. Key issues include the absence of a federal data privacy law, a lack of anti-doxxing legislation, and unclear legal status regarding AI deepfakes. Survey respondents expressed dissatisfaction with current legal protections, emphasizing the need for comprehensive legal reforms to ensure digital spaces are safe and accessible for all users.

Key takeaways:

  • One in four American women experience online abuse, with women of color and those aged 18–34 facing the greatest risk.
  • AI deepfakes, revenge porn, and doxxing have the most severe impact on women's everyday lives, affecting self-esteem, mental health, and financial wellbeing.
  • Women from mixed ethnic backgrounds experience the highest rates of online abuse, with Latina or Hispanic women also facing high rates.
  • Federal law lacks adequate protection for women online, with gaps in data privacy, anti-doxxing laws, and the legal status of AI deepfakes.
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