The topic of this article is online harassment, surveillance, or exploitation for marginalized queer individuals. These three terms refer to actions that can be taken against queer people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, or nonbinary (LGBTIQ+) by others who do not approve of their identity or expression. Queer individuals may experience harassment, surveillance, or exploitation in various contexts, including social media, dating apps, job sites, educational institutions, and even governmental agencies.
These issues are particularly prevalent when accessing the internet from a mobile device, especially when using public WiFi networks. Online harassment involves threats, insults, humiliation, and unwanted comments directed at an individual due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Surveillance refers to tracking and monitoring of queer individuals' online activity without consent. This can include obtaining personal data such as email addresses, bank account numbers, passwords, or location history. Exploitation is a form of abuse where individuals take advantage of queer individuals, usually through blackmail, extortion, or coercion. In extreme cases, this can lead to physical harm, including assault or murder. Marginalized queer individuals are those who have been historically oppressed due to their sexuality or gender identity, including women, people of color, disabled people, immigrants, and members of religious minorities. They may face greater risks than white cisgender men because they are more likely to encounter discrimination, stigma, and violence. LGBTIQ+ people may be targeted for harassment, surveillance, or exploitation based on false beliefs about their behavior or appearance, which contributes to marginalization and exclusion. The consequences of these actions can range from emotional distress to financial loss and safety concerns. Queer individuals experiencing online harassment, surveillance, or exploitation should contact law enforcement immediately.
They may seek support from organizations that offer resources related to cybersecurity, privacy, and civil rights. It is essential to educate oneself on the dangers associated with using public WiFi networks and carefully review the terms and conditions of any apps or websites used.
Online harassment, surveillance, and exploitation of marginalized queer individuals pose significant threats to their well-being and security.
What are the risks of online harassment, surveillance, or exploitation for marginalized queer individuals?
Online harassment, surveillance, or exploitation can be devastating for marginalized queer individuals because they may experience increased feelings of alienation and isolation from their communities due to discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation. They may also face more severe consequences such as physical violence and homelessness if their identities are exposed publicly.