Addressing the Rising Digital Violence: A New Approach for Deepfake Counteraction
Examining Beyond Hateful Remarks: The Imperative of Counseling on Digital Aggression - Guidance on Cyber Aggression: More Than Just Instigation
Tackling digital violence in today's online environment has become a pressing concern, with the demand for support services growing exponentially. Berna Ulucay, project leader at Elly, a Thuringian counseling center against hate speech and harassment, acknowledges this escalating need. Although the center currently focuses on digital harassment, a broader scope has become increasingly desirable - with the inclusion of digital violence forms - but it would necessitate additional staff and sustained funding.
In their current capacity, Elly already assists victims of digital violence, such as online harassment on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Cases like the distribution of a mother's daughter's nude images or stalking are among the matters that Elly addresses. However, gender-specific digital violence or AI usage are not yet within their primary focus.
Unforeseen digital violence forms, like the horrifying practice of producing deepfakes, are on the rise. Using artificial intelligence, women's faces can be inserted into sex videos without consent, creating a new dimension of internet attacks. Local political figures have voiced concerns, highlighting the need to address this emerging issue more aggressively.
In the year past, Elly counseled 103 individuals in Thuringia, many of them local politicians. Over a third of the counseling cases required multi-session engagement. The Elly counseling center relies on funding from the state prevention council, headquartered at the Ministry of the Interior. Presently, five employees maintain the center's operations.
To effectively assist victims of deepfakes, a comprehensive approach that transcends emotional and legal aspects is essential. Constructive strategies might include emotional support, legal advice, digital literacy education, community support, and collaboration with authorities to identify and prosecute perpetrators.
Various resources are available in Thuringia, Germany, to support victims of digital harassment and deepfakes. These options range from locally based counseling services to women's shelters, support centers, and law enforcement cybercrime units. Online resources, such as cybersecurity advice and legal guidance, are also accessible for those impacted by digital violence.
Education and awareness campaigns, as well as collaboration with tech companies, can further aid in preventing future cases and addressing deepfakes' legal and ethical implications. Local government offices and women's organizations can also provide tailored advice and connect victims with local services.
To counter the rising tide of digital violence, awareness, education, and collaboration are vital. Standing together, we can strive to create a safer online space for all.
In light of the increasing instances of digital violence, including deepfakes, it is crucial to expand Elly's scope to encompass AI-based digital violence and gender-specific cases. This broader approach could include health-and-wellness resources, such as mental health support, and science-driven strategies to combat these emerging threats. Additionally, collaboration with tech companies, women's organizations, and local government offices could play a pivotal role in implementing preventive measures and addressing the legal and ethical implications of deepfakes.
