Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV)

Project

What is TFGBV?

Technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) is a form of gender-based violence that takes place on digital platforms (e.g., social media, online forums) or is aided by the use of technology.

TFGBV targets women and girls, as well as transgender, gender-diverse, and gender non-conforming individuals.

While TFGBV primarily takes place online, its harm can spread into physical spaces. With our increasing reliance on technology, TFGBV is becoming more widespread and harder to escape.

What is the TFGBV Project?

The project began in 2024 and is run by the Corner Brook Status of Women Council. We are funded by the federal and provincial Women and Gender Equality department under the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. We conduct research and use our findings to 1) create educational materials (like presentations, trainings, and workshops), and 2) advocate for necessary legal and support changes.

Our Mission

To use our research findings to inform our advocacy and prevention efforts
To use our platform to educate the public about TFGBV

TFGBV in NL Research Report

Are NL residents experiencing TFGBV? What are the impacts?

We used a province-wide survey and 11 focus groups to provide an overview of NL residents' experiences with TFGBV.

Our research found that NL residents, especially women and gender-diverse people, are experiencing TFGBV and face barriers to getting help. TFGBV survivors require more mental health resources, education, and legal options or support.

Key Findings

Over 60% of NL residents surveyed experienced a form of TFGBV. Over 80% witnessed a form of TFGBV.
Participants reported a severe lack of resources, both in education and support, in NL (e.g., mental health counselling, legal aid, etc.).
Participants experienced significant mental health impacts after incidents of TFGBV. This included:
- Suicidal ideation
- Loneliness/isolation
- Increased anxiety/paranoia
- And more...
Participants noted seeing and experiencing racialized and anti-2SLGBTQIA+ online harassment/misinformation.
Harassment and cyberbullying were a major cause for concern across multiple regions. More women experienced harassment than men.
Hacking and scams are prevalent across multiple regions.
Survivors want better trauma and violence-informed training for anti-violence staff and other workers.
Access to technology and wireless communication services is a huge barrier, especially in Labrador and rural or remote areas.
Participants and NL residents surveyed want more education on TFGBV as a form of violence prevention.

Read the Report

TFGBV Resources

Have you or someone you know experienced technology-facilitated gender-based violence? Do you want to learn more?

Check out this digital resource library for additional information on technology-facilitated gender-based violence. This list is ongoing and updated frequently. Contact us if you have a resource to add to this list.

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest insights and updates on technology-facilitated gender-based violence in our province.