Women, girls facing new harm from technology

Women and girls are increasingly facing new forms of harm due to the misuse of technology. Generative AI tools have become a weapon in the hands of attackers, allowing them to inflict Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) through various techniques. The rapid advancement of technology has undoubtedly brought about numerous benefits and opportunities. However, it has also opened up pathways for individuals with ill intentions to perpetrate harm. Women and girls, in particular, have become the target of various forms of online abuse, harassment, and violence. Generative AI tools, which are designed to mimic and replicate human-like behavior and generate content autonomously, have been leveraged by attackers to amplify the harm inflicted on women and girls. These tools, in the wrong hands, can manipulate and create realistic images, videos, audios, and texts that can be used to harass, defame, or exploit their targets. One of the most concerning aspects is the use of Deepfake technology, a subset of generative AI, which allows attackers to create manipulated videos or audios that appear to be genuine. This technique has been used to create fake pornography starring unwilling victims by superimposing their faces onto explicit content. Deepfake technology poses a significant threat as it can be difficult to detect these manipulated media without sophisticated forensic analysis. Additionally, generative AI tools have been used to generate fake social media profiles that impersonate real individuals, often women, with the intent to deceive, defame, or intimidate others. These fake profiles can spread false information, harass, or engage in malicious activities, causing significant harm to the targeted individuals and their reputation. Another emerging issue is the use of chatbots, powered by AI, in online platforms to engage in predatory behaviors targeting vulnerable women and girls. These chatbots can be programmed to groom victims, manipulate emotions, and persuade them into sharing personal information or engaging in inappropriate activities. The sophisticated nature of these chatbots can make it difficult for victims to recognize that they are interacting with non-human entities. Furthermore, cyberstalking has become an increasingly prevalent form of harassment, with stalkers using technology to monitor, track, and intimidate their victims. Generative AI tools can be leveraged to create sophisticated surveillance systems that invade an individual's privacy, causing emotional distress and fear. The constant monitoring and harassment can have severe psychological effects on the victims, impacting their mental health and well-being. The widespread availability and ease of access to generative AI tools have contributed to the escalation of harm faced by women and girls. These tools are no longer limited to highly skilled individuals or advanced technology enthusiasts but have become easily accessible to anyone with basic technical knowledge. Today, a few clicks are all it takes to access and misuse these powerful tools, amplifying the potential for harm. Addressing the issue of technology-facilitated harm requires a multi-faceted approach involving various stakeholders. Technology companies and developers must take responsibility for designing and implementing safeguards to prevent the misuse of AI tools. Investing in robust content moderation algorithms, detection systems for manipulated media, and user authentication processes can significantly reduce the risk of harm. Educating and empowering women and girls about the risks associated with technology and providing them with the necessary digital literacy skills is crucial. By raising awareness about the potential harms and teaching individuals how to recognize and respond effectively to online abuse, they can better protect themselves and seek appropriate support when needed. Legal frameworks must also adapt to effectively address instances of technology-facilitated harm. Legislation should be updated to include provisions specifically targeting the misuse of generative AI tools and deepfake technology. Implementing strict penalties for offenders can act as a deterrent and ensure that justice is served to victims. Collaboration between technology companies, law enforcement agencies, and civil society organizations is vital in combating technology-facilitated harm. Sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices can help develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes and consequences of these forms of abuse. Additionally, fostering a culture of digital ethics and responsible technology use can contribute to a safer online environment. Women and girls deserve to navigate the digital space without the fear of facing harm or violence. By recognizing the unique challenges they face and taking proactive measures to address technology-facilitated harm, we can create a more inclusive and secure online world for all.