In many parts of the world, being LGBTQ+ is dangerous. People who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, nonbinary, or any combination thereof are subject to discrimination, harassment, violence, and even death. In some places, this persecution is part of official policy; it's legal to murder them simply because they exist.
The internet has allowed marginalized people to connect across borders without leaving home. With digital spaces like dating apps, social media platforms, chat rooms, online games, forums, and blogs, queer individuals can find allies, share their experiences, seek support, and form communities that would otherwise be impossible. They can also shield themselves from real-world danger by changing identities and keeping personal details secret. But can these virtual spaces truly protect LGBTQ+ people from authorities? Can digital security measures guarantee their safety? This article examines the risks faced by queer individuals in authoritarian societies and explores how technology can help counteract them.
1. Risks in Authoritarian Societies
Authoritarian regimes often view sexual minorities as threats to their political agendas and cultural norms. Governments like Russia and Saudi Arabia have criminalized homosexuality, with prison sentences ranging from a few months to life imprisonment. In Uganda, the anti-homosexuality law allows for the execution of repeat offenders. In other countries, laws do not explicitly target queer people but still make life difficult.
Same-sex marriage isn't recognized in Japan or Australia, which limits access to healthcare, employment benefits, and tax breaks. Even in countries where being gay is legal, it can be unsafe due to stigma, discrimination, and violence.
2. Virtual Safety vs. Real-World Dangers
While digital spaces may provide emotional support, they cannot fully safeguard against physical harm. Authorities can monitor internet activity and track down users who engage in "immoral" behavior. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities or sell information on the dark web. Some governments block websites like Grindr, Facebook, and Reddit that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.
Many people find ways around these restrictions, using VPNs (virtual private networks), proxies, or Tor browser. They also use burner phones and delete incriminating messages to avoid surveillance. Social media has become an important tool for protest and advocacy. Despite risks, technology provides some protection; police may struggle to prove guilt without concrete evidence.
3. Countermeasures for Queer Individuals
Queer individuals should prioritize privacy when creating online profiles and chats. They can use fake names, locations, photos, and identifying details to hide their identity. Many apps allow users to blur faces and obscure personal information. They should refrain from sharing sensitive data with strangers and only share it with trusted contacts. It's essential to review security settings regularly and install updates to ensure maximum protection.
Queer activists use encryption software like Signal and WhatsApp to communicate securely. By taking precautions, marginalized communities can reduce but not eliminate risk.
Can digital spaces provide genuine safety for queer individuals in authoritarian societies?
While online interactions can offer a sense of community and security for some, digital spaces may not always be safe for queer individuals in authoritarian countries where homosexuality is criminalized. Queer individuals risk facing discrimination and violence from both state actors and non-state actors. Moreover, online dating apps have been linked to an increase in hate crimes against queer people.