The Role of Technology in Facilitating Virtual Sexual Offences and Its Pyschological Impact on Its Victims

Abstract: Since the victim and perpetrator do not need to be in close proximity to one another, virtual sexual offenses have been on the rise for decades. Technology, on the other hand, is making these offenses easier through a variety of platforms, as the current study notes. People of all ages use social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, and others, which can have both beneficial and detrimental effects. Furthermore, shedding more light on the drawbacks of virtual platforms, it is noted that there are many different ways that criminals target their victims and continue to abuse them. Ordinary people who are assaulted experience psychological effects and many traumas. The case study cited in this research provides a brief idea respectively. The paper compares real-world experiences and virtual world assumptions in online activities, highlighting minor loopholes used by criminals. Victims experience traumatic issues in virtual sexual offenses, similar to real-life assaults. Medical diagnoses show a thin line between mental impacts and real-life assaults. The paper emphasizes the need for law enforcement agencies to consider legal impacts and equip their teams to resolve crimes effectively. Strict regulations, education, and technological solutions are needed to combat virtual sexual offenses, including content bans, respectful relationships, outreach programs, AI tools, and mental health impacts.

Virtual Environment, Virtual Sexual Offences, Exploitation, Technology Facilitated Crimes, Psychological Impact, Digital Anonymity

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