A new report from UN Women warns that AI-powered abuse and deepfake technology are increasingly being used to intimidate and silence women in public-facing roles. The study surveyed more than 640 women across 119 countries, including journalists, activists, politicians, and human rights defenders. Researchers found that online attacks are becoming more technologically sophisticated, with perpetrators using AI-generated sexual imagery, manipulated videos, and coordinated harassment campaigns to damage reputations and drive women out of public discourse.
The report highlights the growing prevalence of non-consensual intimate imagery and deepfake abuse. Around 27% of respondents reported receiving unsolicited sexual content or cyberflashing, while others experienced manipulated images or AI-generated “virtual rape” content designed to humiliate and threaten them. Researchers say these attacks are often highly targeted and coordinated, aiming not just to harass individuals but to undermine women’s credibility and discourage participation in public life.
One of the most alarming findings is the chilling effect this abuse is having on women’s behavior. More than 41% of respondents said they had self-censored on social media to avoid attacks, and nearly one in five reduced their professional visibility or stopped speaking publicly on controversial issues. The psychological impact has also been severe, with significant numbers reporting anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms linked to persistent digital harassment.
The report argues that governments, law enforcement, and technology platforms are struggling to keep pace with the rapid evolution of AI-enabled abuse. Existing legal protections are often weak or inconsistently enforced, leaving many victims without meaningful recourse. Researchers and advocacy groups are calling for stronger regulations on deepfake technologies, better moderation systems, and improved support for victims, warning that unchecked AI-driven harassment could further erode women’s participation in journalism, politics, and civic life worldwide.
