I thank Michael Cooper from Online Safety Masters / vpnMentor for providing this guest blog and link to the more detailed online resource. This is an important topic since many LGBTQ+ people are cyber-bullied.

Navigating heterosexual and cisgender society can be challenging for LGBTQ+ members, who often turn to the internet for solidarity. The internet provides a sense of community among LGBTQ+ people, regardless of their physical proximity. It connects individuals to information and people of the LGBT+ community, providing spaces for acceptance, community, and support. The internet can be life-saving for LGBTQ+ youth, as the suicide rate is higher than that of their heterosexual and cisgender peers. Support groups and online language can help discern trans identities and help bridge the gap between the LGBTQ+ and heterosexual communities.

The vpnMentor.com survey conducted by vpnMentor found that 73% of LGBTQ+ people have been personally attacked or harassed online, with 50% experiencing sexual harassment online. The study also revealed that asexual people feel the least safe online, while gay men are the safest. Transgender women feel the least safe online, and cisgender men are the safest. Transgender women are the most likely to be outed against their will online, while cisgender men are least likely.

The survey also revealed that self-identified gay people felt safest online, but some believe it’s because they are overly cautious about their internet activity. Some self-identified gay people have felt safest online, but this extra mental effort keeps them safe online, but it does come at a price. The hope is that one day, none of this will be relevant, and all people, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity, will feel free to express themselves online in any way they see fit, without fear.

Cyberbullying is a near universal experience, with 73% of LGBTQ+ people reporting being personally attacked or harassed online. These incidents often revolve around attempts to alter or criticize a person’s sexual or gender identity. The abuse isn’t always just verbal, and sometimes, it can even lead to physical violence. Asexual people describe feeling threatened by their non-asexual counterparts who refuse to accept asexuality as a valid orientation. Some people accuse asexuals of having a latent or “not yet developed” sexual interest, but many respondents downplayed their harassment and excused this behavior as “just the usual.”

In conclusion, the vpnMentor.com survey highlights the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, including cyberbullying, harassment, and harassment. By understanding and coping with these challenges, individuals can find solace and support in the online community.

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Here is an additional excellent resource from the allconnect Resource Center:  Cyberbullying: How to identify and handle online harassment