AI: Navigating Online Safety As A Sexual Assault Survivor
At GOTU, we believe that consideration for sexual assault (aka sexual violation) survivorship must be baked into everyday resources and technologies. The emergence in popularity of artificial intelligence (AI) led us to research some of the top tools and co-author information regarding this serious matter. Information in this post is per OpenAI’s ChatGPT v3.5.
Survivorship Issue:
In today's digital age, survivors of sexual assault face unique challenges when it comes to online safety and privacy. The internet can be a double-edged sword, offering opportunities for connection and support, but also presenting risks of re-victimization, harassment, and privacy breaches. Navigating online spaces safely and protecting one's privacy becomes essential for sexual assault survivors seeking support and healing.
Definition of the Issue:
Online safety and privacy after sexual assault encompass the measures and precautions survivors must take to protect themselves from online threats, including cyberbullying, harassment, stalking, and unauthorized disclosure of personal information. Survivors may experience heightened vulnerability in online spaces, as perpetrators may use the internet to perpetuate abuse, manipulate, or intimidate them. Unfortunately, the few existing laws limit accountability of perpetrators and action for law enforcement agencies.
Impacts of the Issue:
The impacts of compromised online safety and privacy on survivors can be devastating. Survivors may experience increased anxiety, hypervigilance, and paranoia about their digital footprint and online interactions. Fear of being recognized or targeted by the perpetrator can lead survivors to withdraw from online communities and social media platforms, depriving them of crucial sources of support and connection. In addition to withdrawal from online activities, many survivors may also shy away from activities such as buying a home, voting and community involvement because these actions allow for their information to be made publicly available online.
Moreover, breaches of online privacy, such as unauthorized sharing of personal information or intimate images, can further traumatize survivors and exacerbate feelings of shame, guilt, and powerlessness. Survivors may also face social ostracism or victim-blaming if their assault becomes public knowledge online, compounding their trauma and hindering their ability to seek help and support.
How to Get Help with the Issue:
Seeking help and support is crucial for survivors navigating online safety and privacy concerns. Online safety resources and hotlines, such as cybercrime helplines or online privacy advocacy organizations, can offer guidance and assistance in securing digital devices, protecting personal information, and reporting online abuse or harassment.
Additionally, therapists and counselors trained in trauma-informed care can provide support and coping strategies for managing online safety concerns and the emotional impact of digital threats. Joining support groups or survivor communities can also provide validation, solidarity, and peer support in navigating the complexities of online survivorship. Resources at local hospitals and police stations can help connect you to local resources in your area.
It is important for survivors to prioritize their safety and well-being in online spaces and to seek help from trusted professionals and support networks whenever they feel threatened or unsafe.
Importance of Overcoming the Issue:
Overcoming online safety and privacy concerns is essential for the healing and empowerment of sexual assault survivors. By reclaiming control over their digital boundaries, survivors can reduce their risk of re-victimization and regain a sense of agency and autonomy. Protecting online privacy allows survivors to engage more safely and confidently in online support networks, advocacy efforts, and social interactions.
Moreover, overcoming online safety concerns is not only beneficial for the individual survivor but also for their communities and society at large. It fosters a culture of digital empathy, respect, and accountability, challenging online harassment and abuse and promoting safer, more inclusive online spaces for all users.
In conclusion, navigating online safety and privacy after sexual assault survivorship is a complex and challenging journey. However, with support, education, and empowerment, survivors can reclaim their digital boundaries and protect themselves from online threats. Overcoming online safety concerns is a crucial step towards healing and empowerment, both for the individual survivor and for the broader community.
Disclaimer: This blog post was written with the use of ChatGPT v3.5, an OpenAI chat bot and virtual assistant that uses learning language models (LLMs). Content in this post is for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or consultation with healthcare professionals. Seek the advice of medical, trauma informed and/or other health care professionals regarding any condition or treatment and never disregard or delay treatment because of content that has been either read or seen on this website.