In our tech-dominated world, social media serves as a powerful platform for women to connect, voice their opinions, and offer support. However, the online realm can also expose women to various challenges, including online harassment and privacy concerns. To empower women in the digital age, it’s crucial to understand the legal framework in place to safeguard their rights.

Here’s a more user-friendly breakdown of the legal provisions in India designed to protect women from online offenders:

1. Protecting Your Personal Information

No one can share or alter your personal information without your consent.

Section 72A of the IT Act, 2000 (amended in 2008): Individuals, including intermediaries, who access personal information through a lawful contract and disclose it to others without consent or in violation of the contract with the intent of causing wrongful loss or gain may face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to five lakh rupees, or both.

2. Privacy and Visual Content

Know your privacy rights, and be aware of the laws protecting your visual content online

Section 66E of the IT Act: This provision deals with the publication of visual images that violate an individual’s privacy, with penalties ranging from imprisonment to fines.

3. Preventing Explicit Content

Understand the legal implications of creating or transmitting explicit material online

Section 67 of the IT Act: This section aims to prevent and penalize the creation, transmission, or encouragement of transmitting explicit material, with varying penalties for first and repeat offenses.

4. Addressing Online Harassment and Stalking

Know the laws that protect you from online harassment and stalking.

Section 354A, 354C, and 354D of the IPC: These sections deal with lewd comments, voyeurism, and online stalking, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

5. Defamation and Threats

Understand the legal consequences for those who harm your reputation or threaten you online.

Section 499, 503, and 509 of the IPC: These provisions address defamation, threats, and posting sexual remarks online, with penalties involving jail terms and fines.

Be aware of other legal provisions that safeguard your online presence.

Section 228A and Section 292 of the IPC: These sections address the protection of rape victims’ identities and obscene material, respectively.

Empowering Through Intermediary Rules

Explore your rights under the 2021 Intermediary Rules.

The 2021 Intermediary Rules provide a significant empowerment tool for women facing issues like revenge porn or offensive content online. You can file a complaint with the Internet Service Provider’s Grievance Redressal Officer, and if dissatisfied, escalate the matter to higher authorities.

Take the necessary steps to protect yourself.

For women facing online harassment, taking legal action is essential. Filing an FIR can be initiated in the local police station where you reside, or you can register an online complaint at www.cybercrime.gov.in.

Sources -

  1. https://www.forbesindia.com/article/brand-connect/legal-provisions-and-steps-to-report-online-harassment-against-women/79393/1

  2. ChatGPT, personal communication, November 1, 2023