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The rapid growth of digital technologies has expanded opportunities for communication and participation but has also increased online harassment and abuse. Women are disproportionately affected by gender-based and sexualized violence in online spaces (Aiston, Citation2023). This article examines how patriarchal power structures and rape culture are reproduced digitally, drawing on interdisciplinary research and recent UK policy developments. It explores the role of hegemonic, complicit, subordinated, and marginalized masculinities, alongside the influence of manosphere and incel communities in shaping online harms. The article also considers the rise of digital feminist activism in challenging abuse and promoting gender equality. Finally, it evaluates legislative responses and proposes a practice-focused framework to strengthen prevention, support survivors, improve accountability, and inform future research.
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Alexandria Corran (2026) studied this question.
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