Gender-Based Violence IT Help

Gender-Based Violence refers to harmful acts which target someone because of their gender. It can happen to anyone of any gender, but it disproportionately affects women.

Information technology has allowed Gender-Based Violence to take new forms, such as cyberstalking, online harassment, and sharing intimate images online without consent. 

Everyone has an equal right to safety as they work or study.

To combat Gender-Based Violence through IT, we have put together some information which might be helpful.

Taking preventative measures can make it more difficult for abusers to access your private information or track your location. 

We understand it is not always possible for people who are currently experiencing Gender-Based Violence to take such measures, or have full control over the choices made about their IT equipment and accounts. However, where it is safe to do so, even following some of this guidance can close off avenues for abuse.

 

Password security

Use a device you trust

Secure your device

Good email practice

Be aware of how much info you share

Check for trackers and keyloggers

Wipe devices before disposal

Find a safe place to study 

If you want to contact the police, please contact them BEFORE deleting anything. 

Even if you do not want to contact the police, at this time or at all, you should still gather evidence of the abuse first, before taking any other steps. It is understandable that you might want to delete or take down anything hurtful immediately, but even taking a few moments to take a screenshot can help support any report of abuse to the University, or an external website, or other body.

How to take a screenshot

How to do a reverse image search

How to set up a Google Alert

You may want to get support after experiencing Gender-Based Violence. Even if you are not sure what kind of support you need, or if you need any, it can help to talk it over. 

On-campus Rape Crisis Support

Student counselling service

Staff PAM Assist programme

Chaplaincy

Organisations dealing with gender-based violence

For more information about Gender-Based Violence, see Equally Safe in Higher Education

For more information about cybersecurity, see Cybersecurity

If you have any questions or concerns, email help@strath.ac.uk