Pakistan CERT Warns Millions of Women Face Rising Digital Harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace and digital harassment, particularly affecting women, remain significant issues globally. In Pakistan, the National Computer Emergency Response Team highlighted persistent threats such as image-based abuse and digital harassment, exacerbated by low digital literacy and inadequate reporting channels, with social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram being central to both expression and exploitation; this follows the tragic murder of a popular TikToker after rejecting a social media acquaintance. In the UK, a tribunal ruled that playing the game 'snog, marry, avoid' at work, especially when involving inappropriate content or images, can constitute sexual harassment under the Equality Act, reflecting increasing legal scrutiny of workplace conduct. Surveys show that while many women experience sexual harassment, a majority do not report it due to fear and disbelief, with companies often repeating 'zero tolerance' statements but failing to address the underlying culture. Events like the Cannes Lions Festival also face ongoing challenges with sexual harassment, prompting calls for reflection and action within creative industries. These developments underscore the need for enhanced awareness, stronger enforcement, and cultural change both online and offline to protect vulnerable individuals from harassment and abuse.