Online abuse affects almost half of young women, research finds

Almost half of women aged between 16 and 24 have experienced online violence, according to research warning that abuse and misogyny have become an accepted risk of using digital platforms.

The report by Refuge and the End Violence Against Women Coalition drew on a representative survey of 2,000 women aged 16 and over across the UK. It found that 47% of young women and 36% of women overall had experienced some form of online violence.

Among those aged 16 to 24, 38% reported experiencing online misogyny or sexual violence, while 12% had received threats of physical or sexual violence. Young women also reported stalking, harassment, coercive control and the non-consensual sharing of intimate images.

The effects extended beyond the online world. Fifteen per cent of young respondents said the abuse had left them feeling suicidal, while one in seven women across all age groups had stopped using a social media platform as a result.

The research also found that many women did not report their experiences to the police or technology companies. Among those who contacted the police, 17% said their case was not investigated. Others reported being told to change their own online behaviour or receiving slow and inadequate responses.

Refuge and EVAW are calling for technology companies to face stronger legal responsibilities, improved police training and more decisive action from Ofcom to prevent abuse and hold perpetrators accountable.

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