In this special issue titled “Cyberviolence: a plague of victimization and exploitation online,” we delve deeply into the increasingly pervasive issue of cyberviolence, a form of victimization that unfolds within the digital realms where everyday interactions occur. The intent of this issue is to examine empirical studies that focus on various forms of online victimization that affect both children and adults. This issue collates pioneering research on cyberbullying, cyberstalking, sextortion, nonconsensual pornography and other severe forms of cybervictimization that continue to evolve at a rapid pace.
Historically, discussions around cyber-related issues have predominantly centered on cybersecurity, cyber intelligence and financially motivated cybercrimes. However, the unique contribution of this issue lies in its focus on the interpersonal and deeply destructive aspects of cyberviolence – areas that have not been comprehensively covered in previous literature. The articles selected for this issue offer empirical insights that are crucial for understanding how digital spaces can be weaponized to harm others.
The significance of addressing cyberviolence extends beyond academic discourse. The mental and physical repercussions of such digital abuse are shown to be as substantial as those resulting from physical forms of abuse. Moreover, the digital nature of these crimes allows for rapid and repeated victimization, exacerbating their impact on the victims’ psychological well-being and increasing the urgency for effective interventions and preventative measures. This is particularly important as rates of suicidal ideation and attempts among victims continue to rise alarmingly.
Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to good health and well-being (Goal 3) and peace, justice, and strong institutions (Goal 16), this special issue aims to ignite discussions that lead to actionable change. It addresses how the integration of technology into daily life – while offering numerous benefits – also presents significant challenges in the form of increased rates of victimization and exploitation, which in turn can degrade the quality of life, mental health and social relationships.
Through this editorial and the articles that follow, we hope to illuminate the dark corners of the internet where cyberviolence flourishes and to foster a scholarly and practical understanding that catalyzes protective measures for vulnerable populations against such exploitation. This special issue stands as a call to action for policymakers, educators and law enforcement to adopt innovative and effective strategies to combat and prevent the rising tide of cyberviolence.
This special issue examines the complex phenomena of cybervictimization through six empirical studies that explore different facets of this pressing issue. Each article contributes uniquely to our understanding of cyberviolence, addressing various forms of online abuses and fills a critical gap in the existing literature.
Toro-Alvarez’s (2024) study addresses the increasing prevalence of cyberbullying among minority youths within school settings, a core concern in cyberviolence. By linking the constructs of low self-control and peer influence with cyberbullying behavior through structural equation modeling, this research not only underscores the role of individual and social dynamics in perpetuating cyberviolence but also offers a nuanced understanding of how self-control contributes to new forms of victimization. This aligns with our special issue’s theme by highlighting the need for comprehensive cyberbullying prevention strategies that are inclusive of diverse student populations.
Fissel and Lee (2024) explore self-protective behaviors among young adult cyberstalking victims. The study provides insights into how victims respond to harassment and stalking online and emphasizes for understanding the dynamics of self-protection in the context of cyberstalking, a severe form of cyberviolence. The findings reveal variations in protective behaviors based on incident and respondent characteristics, contributing to our broader understanding of cyberviolence and emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions that consider these variations.
Choi et al. (2024b) examine the emergent issue of child sexual abuse within the Metaverse. It contributes significantly to the theme by diagnosing current patterns and enhancing future law enforcement responses to cybercrimes in virtual environments. The recommendations for trust-building and policy development between governments and digital citizens are particularly pertinent, highlighting the evolving nature of cyberviolence and the need for adaptive legal and social systems.
Asad and Fatima’s (2024) research on the impact of cyber violence on cognitive development among female students in Pakistan adds a crucial dimension to the theme of cyberviolence by linking it to educational outcomes and mental health. The study’s findings underscore the significant effects of cyberviolence on learning and psychological well-being, advocating for robust policy responses and educational programs to mitigate these impacts.
Logie and Maras’s (2024) exploration of doxing and its commercialization on the darknet as a form of blackmail-as-a-service extends our understanding of cyberviolence into the realms of privacy invasion and economic exploitation. This study connects directly with the issue’s theme by demonstrating how technological advancements can facilitate new forms of victimization and necessitate urgent legal reforms to combat these evolving cyber threats.
Finally, the study by Choi et al. (2024a) on sentencing in child sexual abuse material cases provides critical insights into the judicial handling of such crimes. By analyzing factors that influence sentencing decisions, this research contributes to the broader objectives of ensuring justice and enhancing legal frameworks to protect victims of cyberviolence effectively.
This special issue unites a collection of articles that both deepen our understanding of cyberviolence and emphasize the critical need for interdisciplinary strategies in addressing these multifaceted challenges. It also aims to spark further research and action towards developing effective preventive and responsive strategies against the scourge of cyberviolence, aligning with the United Nations’ goals for health, well-being, peace, justice and strong institutions. Moreover, we aspire for this special issue to contribute significantly to the field of cybercriminology, offering actionable insights that can reduce the prevalence of cyberviolence. Through rigorous scholarship and practical recommendations, we seek to inspire further research, promote informed policymaking and encourage the implementation of best practices in combating these pervasive threats to security and human dignity.
This paper forms part of a special section “Cyberviolence: a plague of victimization and exploitation online”, guest edited by Catherine Marcum and Kyung-Shick Choi.
