There is always an inherent risk that online harassment will transition to the physical world. For this reason, physical safety is a crucial precondition for any other form of meaningful protection. In terms of mental protection, sometimes it is helpful to take a break or minimize time spent on social media platforms, or those platforms of communication where you are targeted with harassment. Talking to friends, family, partners and colleagues about harassment can also be helpful in creating a system of support.
Blocking , filtering and reporting options on social media platforms can often serve as a helpful tool for documenting harassment.
The DeleteMe tool can help find and remove your personal information from some websites.
Reaching out for support professional associations and support groups is another method for dealing with harassment.
Several investigative journalists and their networks track down perpetrators of online harassment by analysing their digital footprint. This has been an effective mechanism for not only the identification of perpetrators, but also exposing them and their crimes to public scrutiny.
In Serbia, female journalists can find support through the initiative “Female Journalists against violence”, and dozens of other feminist organizations that offer services for individuals targeted with violence, including online.
If you ever feel that the online violence you’re experiencing, might transition into the physical world, call the police → immediately.
Password
Authentication
Recovery account
Digital hygiene
Phone/Tablet
Encryption
Malware
Location
Report to platform
Block user
Safety
Support
Sexual Harassment
Computer/Laptop
Criminal charges