Semarang - Gender-based sexual violence now occurs not just in the physical world but also in the digital realm, known as KBGO (Online Gender-Based Violence). It is carried out by perpetrators who harass or harm victims based on gender or sexuality, physically or psychologically. It can happen to anyone, even by someone close.
“Komnas Perempuan data from January through May 2020 recorded 193 reports from women. The most common form of online violence was threats to distribute pornographic photos or revenge porn, with 81 reports. This causes physical fear and psychological distress,” said Muhammad Bima Januri, Co-Founder of Localin.id.
The webinar, titled “Protect Yourself from the Dangers of Pornography in the Digital World,” attracted 2,000 participants from across Semarang Regency. The virtual discussion was opened by President Joko Widodo and followed by messages from Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo and Semarang Regent Ngesti Nugraha.
Moderated by TV journalist Bunga Cinka, Bima Januri appeared with three other speakers: Sani Widowati, Princenton Bridge Year Director on Site Indonesia; Gervando Jeorista Leleng, Co-Founder of Localin.id; and Eko Nuryono, digital media specialist, along with key opinion leader Gusto Lumbanbatu.
Bima added that KBGO perpetrators often use social media to befriend victims, then turn those relationships into sexual violence. He said BBC once reported that Instagram is used to lure children into pedophile traps.
“There was even a case in a Surabaya prison where an inmate committed sexual violence against up to 50 victims through social media. This will continue unless we remain vigilant,” he said.
To protect themselves from KBGO, Gervando Jeorista Leleng advised separating private and public accounts, using strong and unique passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and teaching teens to skip and unfollow harmful content.
“Parents must proactively protect children online and ask who they are interacting with. Block and report anyone who threatens a child online,” Gervando said.
Sani Widowati said complaints can be filed through the police SMS complaint line 1717, Komnas Perempuan, legal aid agencies, or Kominfo’s content complaint portal at https://aduankonten.id. Child protection cases can also be reported to the Child Protection Commission.
“Include screenshots or videos as evidence so the police can respond more effectively. We need parents and families to participate actively. If this continues unchecked, perpetrators will not be deterred,” she said.
(*)