Call for action to combat online harassment of travellers

Travel metasearch website WayAway recently conducted an eye-opening survey showing the extent of online harassment faced by travellers, including unwanted sexually explicit images.

It comes as the UN’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was celebrated at the weekend.

The findings expose the need for targeted actions now from social media companies, law enforcement, tourism destination marketing bodies and travel stakeholders.

The survey reveals that 36% of travellers who are active social media users have encountered some form of online harassment while exploring new destinations.

Alarmingly, it seems to disproportionately affect women — with 51% reporting online harassment.

An overwhelming 70% of women who reported harassment of some kind received unsolicited, sexually explicit photos.

The survey showed that many travellers faced persistent attempts from strangers to meet up, or received sexually explicit messages.

Over half of respondents who reported abuse said the experience had a negative impact on their travel experiences.

While women face harassment more frequently, men who were harassed reported feeling more deeply affected.

Of those reporting an incident, 21% of men said it completely ruined their travel experience, compared to 11% of women.

Over half had concerns that online harassment could escalate to offline stalking or physical harm.

An equally valid concern, shared by 50%, is the vulnerability of being in a foreign country and the potential unresponsiveness of local law enforcement.

Travellers experiencing situations like these resort to different methods.

Nearly half adjust their phone’s location settings, 27% file a complaint with social media platforms or app developers, and 18% update their marital status on social platforms.

Only 15% report incidents to local authorities.

Daisy Dyke, a digital nomad and blogger gave insights on transcending cyber harassment whilst journeying the world in her piece for the WayAway blog.

WayAway’s Director of PR, Janis Dzenis said: “Considering these startling statistics, we urge social media platforms to tighten their reporting systems and initiate prompt action against harassers.“

“Law enforcement agencies are also encouraged to provide efficient assistance to tourists, regardless of nationality, gender, sexual orientation or identity.”

WayAway suggests that travellers maintain stringent privacy settings and report all incidents of harassment.

They should also share resources within the travel community, and choose platforms committed to user safety.

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