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Is a form of sexual violence that is committed by the means of online communication such as Facebook, Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram and texting.
Cyber harassment is a harmful behavior of a sexual nature that is targeted, deliberative and repetitive.
Ex: sending non-consensual comments/content to another person, repetitively asking someone to send you pictures of sexual nature, etc.
When someone tries to control you or tries to receive sexual favors by threatening to expose your sexuality (post your nude pictures, share personal information, etc.)
Ex: threatening to share your information or sexual content publicly.
When someone shares your personal picture (of sexual nature) without your permission (your consent). When someone sends you a personal picture (of sexual nature) of someone else, who has not given consent for the image to be shared
Ex: your “ex” shares your personal pictures of sexual nature to his group of friends on facebook. Your friend shows you a sexual picture that her boyfriend sent her.
When someone acts as a voyeur by recording personal actions (of sexual nature) of another person, without them knowing about it.
Ex: someone who records a video of two people kissing at a party (sexual act) and shares it (or doesn’t).
Sexuality can be experienced in a very positive way, but when you choose to explore it online rather than in person, there are risks associated with that. It is important to be aware of those risks in order to make informed decisions.
Under Canadian law, any sexual videos or photos of a person under the age of 18 are illegal and are considered to be child pornography.
Ex: if your partner (who is under the age of 18) sends you a nude photo and you are found having this in your possession, your partner can be found guilty of distribution of child pornography, and furthermore you can be found guilty of possession, even if you both gave consent (permission) to share this image.
For more information, see: Law and reporting
If you are a victim of sexual cyberviolence, please know that this is NOT YOUR FAULT. Some solutions against sexual cyberviolence are to recognise it and report it. On the other hand, there are ways to protect yourself online.
Here are some links about pertinent information on frequently used applications online:
If you have been a victim of sexual cyberviolence and you want to report it, you can:
– Report it to the police
– Talk to a person of confidence (ex: teacher, parent, etc.)
– Report it at Cybertype.ca where the information can be transmitted to the police (please see the politics about confidentiality).
Report
– Go to NeedHelpNow.ca for more information about sexual cyberviolence
– Call Kids Help Phone in order to talk to someone in confidence and anonymously (Service Privacy Policy
If you are still uncertain on who to talk to, call us at Boreal and we will be glad to guide you to the right resource.
506 383-8300
If your child/student speaks out about being a victim of sexual cyberviolence, it is important to listen to them and not blame them. We must never put the blame on the victims. There are resources available to help guide you. Here are a few:
– Guide for discussions and support
– Report problematic behaviours
– A resource guide for families : Addressing self/peer exploitation
– Cybertip.ca (internet safety)
If you know someone who is a victim of sexual cyberviolence, there are resources to help guide you. Know that being there for them and listening without judgement, are already a big step in the right direction. Talk to an adult who you trust, at home or at school.
Here are some resources:
If you are still uncertain on who to talk to, call us at Boreal and we will be glad to guide you to the right resource.
(506) 383-8300
Boreal Centre d’expertise pour enfants et adolescents © Boreal Child and Youth Expertise Centre
Conception et réalisation Design and development