Nancy J. Balles Sexual Harassment Law Blog on Lawyers.com

Understanding Online Sexual Harassment

Thursday, August 6, 2009 by Nancy J. Balles

Photo of Nancy J. Balles

Almost all companies have policies in place about sexual harassment in the workplace—any type of unwanted sexual advance or quid pro quo sexual harassment where sexual attention or favors are traded for job assignments is prohibited.

But what about online sexual harassment? Many companies don’t have comprehensive policies against online sexual harassment, but it is still unlawful and you still have rights if it happens to you.

Online harassment can be divided into two general categories—materials received by a victim or materials posted about a victim. In both instances, the harassment occurs through the Internet and without the element of face-to-face confrontation.

What to Do When You Are Sexually Harassed Online:

These tips may help you deflect or fight online sexual harassment:

  • Talk to your HR Department at your job and if they do not do anything to help you, hire an attorney immediately.
  • Install a filter on your computer to screen email from specific senders or with specific subjects.
  • Block instant messages from offensive parties.
  • Protect yourself from involuntarily stumbling across offensive materials by using content blockers.
  • Take care with the information you provide to other parties online.

Generally, by exercising caution and setting your computer up so that it is tailored to show you only the information you want to receive, you can be proactive about fighting online sexual harassment.

Don’t feel like the only options are yours to control, though. Your employer owes you a safe work environment and if online sexual harassment is making your work environment hostile, you may need to file a legal claim or lawsuit.

This article was provided by Nancy Balles, sexual harassment attorney in Walnut Creek, California. 

 
Posted at 11:29 AM
Topic: Sexual Harassment
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