Muyabia Labony, Dhaka- Female social media users in Bangladesh are facing an alarming increase in online violence, driven by “bot” accounts and the malicious use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Recent data reveals that a significant majority of women have experienced some form of cyber harassment, ranging from character assassination to deepfake-based blackmail.
Victims like Sheikh Ahona, a student at Dhaka University, shared how a simple photo with a friend was weaponized by online groups to spread religious rumors.
Shockingly, when she sought legal help, the police dismissed the matter as “insignificant.” Similar stories are echoed by student activist Nowrin Sultana, who faces constant body shaming and targeted attacks from bot profiles to demoralize her political involvement.
Alarming Statistics
Studies by ActionAid and Netz Bangladesh highlight a grim reality:
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Online violence against women increased by nearly 50% within a year.
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Approximately 64% to 78% of women have reported being victims of cyber harassment.
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Around 65% of victims suffer from severe mental depression and anxiety.
The Role of Tech and Law
The rise of AI has added a dangerous dimension, allowing offenders to create non-consensual explicit content or “deepfakes” to blackmail women. While the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025 criminalizes such acts, implementation remains weak.
CID’s Cyber Police Center notes that many investigations stall because offenders operate from abroad or victims withdraw due to social stigma.
Experts emphasize that while strict law enforcement is crucial, the root cause lies in a lack of moral education within families.
Professor Dr. Tania Haque of Dhaka University suggests that respect for all genders must be taught from childhood to curb this social decay.