WORLD - A report by UN Women explains that the internet is no longer a safe or neutral space for women. New technologies, especially AI, are being used in harmful ways, making abuse more common and harder to control.

Women who are active online, like journalists and content creators, face more risks due to three main reasons: advanced AI tools, anonymous accounts, and a lack of strong laws.

Based on data from over 1,500 women, some said they were victims of deepfakes, many received unwanted sexual messages, and others had their photos shared without permission, including private ones. This puts women in a difficult position: either stay online and risk abuse, or leave and lose opportunities.

The report also shows that this type of violence affects mental health, causing anxiety, depression, and trauma. As a result, many women limit what they post or avoid sensitive topics.

It concludes that the biggest issue is weak legal protection, as less than 40% of countries have laws to protect women from online harassment.