AI and Deepfakes: A New Frontier of Online Violence Against Women
Technology has undoubtedly transformed modern life, offering convenience, connection, and opportunity. Yet, a darker side of this digital revolution is becoming increasingly undeniable. A groundbreaking report from UN Women, produced in collaboration with a London-based university, reveals a troubling reality: the internet is growing more perilous for women, driven by the malicious use of artificial intelligence and deepfakes. The study paints a stark picture of how these advanced tools are being weaponized to harass, intimidate, and silence women, pushing them away from public digital spaces.
The Scope of the Crisis: Startling Survey Findings
Conducted in late 2025, the survey gathered responses from 641 women across 119 countries. The participants were primarily female journalists and human rights activists—individuals whose voices are vital for democratic discourse. The data exposes a widespread pattern of abuse:
- 27% of women received vulgar messages or explicit images without consent.
- 12% of women had their private photos shared online against their will.
- 6% of women were victims of AI-generated fake images or videos, commonly known as deepfakes.
These figures represent not just statistics but real lives disrupted. For many, the digital world has become a minefield of humiliation and fear, where a single manipulated image can destroy reputations and mental well-being.
How AI Amplifies the Threat
Lead researcher Julie Posetti highlights a critical shift: AI has lowered the barrier for abusers. What once required technical skill or access to editing software can now be accomplished with simple, widely available tools. Deepfake technology allows perpetrators to superimpose a woman’s face onto explicit content, creating convincing but entirely fabricated material. This not only makes the harassment more severe but also harder to trace and prosecute.
Posetti also criticizes the role of tech companies, arguing that many platforms prioritize profit over safety. Algorithms designed to maximize engagement often amplify hateful or abusive content, creating an environment where harassment thrives. Women, particularly those speaking on controversial issues, become easy targets. The result is a digital ecosystem that systematically undermines women’s rights and freedom of expression.
Mental Health Toll: Beyond the Screen
The impact of this online violence extends far beyond the screen. The report documents severe psychological consequences among those surveyed:
- 24% of women experienced depression or anxiety due to online harassment.
- 13% of women suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This constant exposure to abuse forces many women to retreat from public life. Shockingly, 41% of respondents stopped posting opinions or engaging on social media altogether to avoid trolls and vitriol. The silencing effect is not limited to personal accounts; 19% of women reported withdrawing from their professional roles, fearing that their online harassment could spill over into their careers. This self-censorship represents a profound loss—not just for the individuals affected, but for society, which loses diverse perspectives and critical voices.
When Justice Fails: The Inadequacy of Legal Systems
For women who dare to fight back, the path to justice is often blocked. The survey found that while 25% of victims filed police complaints and 15% sought legal assistance, very few have seen any resolution. Co-author Lia Helmüller explains a disturbing pattern: law enforcement frequently blames the victim rather than pursuing the perpetrator. Instead of investigating the crime, police officers advise women to leave social media, avoid controversial topics, or take a break from work.
This response not only fails to deliver justice but also reinforces the message that online spaces are inherently unsafe for women. It places the burden of safety on the victim, effectively telling them to disappear rather than addressing the root cause of the violence. The lack of effective legal recourse leaves women feeling isolated and powerless, further discouraging them from participating in digital public life.
A Gradual Erosion of Women’s Presence Online
The cumulative effect of these factors is alarming. Women are slowly but steadily vanishing from social media and other public forums. This exodus is not a personal choice but a forced retreat driven by fear, exhaustion, and systemic failure. As women withdraw, the internet becomes a less representative and more hostile space for everyone.
The report warns that this trend poses a significant threat to gender equality and democratic values. When women are silenced online, their perspectives on critical issues—from politics to healthcare to human rights—are lost. The digital divide is no longer just about access; it is about safety. Without urgent action from tech companies, law enforcement, and policymakers, the internet risks becoming a tool for oppression rather than empowerment.
