Tech-enabled sexual abuse is any sexually abusive or exploitative behavior carried out using technology tools or online platforms, including artificial intelligence (AI).
Tech-enabled sexual abuse is NOT pornography. It is an insidious new form of sexual violence, and in many cases, it is a crime.
Recognize Tech-Enabled Sexual Abuse
Because technology progresses so quickly, not all of these behaviors are illegal (yet)—but they are all harmful. Types of tech-enabled sexual abuse include:
- Catfishing
- Sextortion
- Child sexual abuse material (CSAM)
- Cyberbullying and cyberstalking
- Deepfakes (AI-manipulated or AI-generated)
- Hacking
- Image-based sexual assault (IBSA)
- Non-consensual intimate imagery (NCII)
- Revenge porn
How Consent Works Online
How Consent Works Online
Consent is the line between intimacy and abuse—even online. If you didn’t say “yes”—freely and clearly—then it’s not consensual.
You cannot give consent if you are:
- Underage
- Intoxicated or incapacitated
- Asleep or unconscious
- Under intimidation, threat, or unequal power dynamics
Even if you initially shared something willingly, that doesn’t mean someone else has the right to share, alter, or use it against you.
Tech-Enabled Sexual Abuse Is Unethical & Harmful
Tech-enabled sexual abuse is a violation—of your agency, your autonomy, and your dignity.
If a predator uses technology to abuse or exploit you, it’s not your fault. The perpetrator is solely responsible and should be held accountable for the damage they cause.
But there’s good news. You are not powerless. You are not alone. And help is available.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, you are not alone. RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline offers free, confidential, 24/7 support in English and en Español.
How To Keep Yourself Safer from Tech-Enabled Sexual Abuse
Nothing you do can guarantee your safety, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of being targeted.
1. Secure Your Devices & Accounts
- Use strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication
- Set a passcode for all devices
- Log out of accounts when you’re finished
- Avoid saving passwords in web browsers
2. Be Cautious with Your Content
- Limit what personal information or photos you post online
- Avoid sharing explicit, intimate, or private content—even with people you know
3. Improve Your Social Media Privacy
- Adjust the platform’s privacy settings to control who can see your content
- Turn off geolocation tagging and check-in features
- Google yourself periodically to see what personal information is publicly available
- Regularly review your social media privacy settings
4. Protect Your Webcam & Device Camera
- Cover your webcam or phone camera when not in use
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for personal activities
- Be cautious about opening unknown messages, links, or downloads
5. Block & Report Abusive Content
- Use the reporting and blocking features on social platforms
- Take screenshots of abusive content as evidence before reporting it
“People have to earn trust. Don’t go home with somebody you’ve only dated two or three times. They could have cameras hidden in the bookshelf; they could have home security cameras running. People can record intimate moments without you ever knowing, so you must keep your guard up.”
– C. Kimberly Toms, survivor
How To Keep Kids Safer from Tech-Enabled Sexual Abuse
Online platforms, encrypted messaging apps, and anonymous forums contribute to the widespread availability of CSAM: child sexual abuse material.
There is no way to guarantee your child’s safety, but there are steps parents, guardians, and caregivers can take to help kids stay safer online.
- Have open conversations. Talk to your children about online risks in age-appropriate ways. Encourage them to come to you if they feel unsafe or pressured online.
- Monitor online activity. Use parental controls, review privacy settings, and keep devices in shared spaces.
“[My daughter] won’t have access to the internet or social media for a long time. That won’t eliminate risk entirely—AI and digital exploitation are widespread—but it’s a non-negotiable safety step for me as a parent.”
– Samantha, survivor
- Educate kids about consent. Teach children about the importance of boundaries and that they should never feel pressured to share photos or personal information.
- Promote healthy skepticism. Warn children about interacting with strangers online and caution them about anyone asking for photos or videos, even people they know.
- Stay informed. Keep up with the latest online trends, apps, and tools predators may use. Knowledge empowers you to take proactive steps.
Everyone Deserves To Feel Safe & In-Control
Tech-enabled sexual abuse is a violation of your rights, dignity, and safety. By taking proactive steps to stay safer online, spreading awareness, and advocating for stronger laws, we can work toward a future where everyone—no matter their age—has control over their digital presence.
“It’s not your fault. This is nothing you did wrong. You trusted somebody. You’re a good human. But bad people take advantage of good people every day.”
– C. Kimberly Toms, survivor
Together, we can combat tech-enabled sexual abuse and create a safer Internet for everyone.
Last updated: July 22, 2025