A lot of employees are allowed to work from home, which can be a positive thing for employees who would rather work from home. However, it’s important to remember that working from home doesn’t guarantee that workplace sexual won’t occur.
Online Sexual Harassment is Illegal
Sexual harassment can happen in the workplace, and it can be just as much of a concern when working remotely. In fact, technology may give harassers even more tools to harass their victims.
Here are a few examples of how workplace sexual harassment can occur in online:
- Inappropriate messages or emails: Employees may need to privately email or text with employers and co-workers. Some employees might take advantage of private conversations and do things like make inappropriate comments that rise to the level of sexual harassment. These types of conversations can be difficult to ignore. You might not have the option to simply block the co-worker (because you’d still be expected to work with them).
- Online stalking: With everyone being online, it’s easier than ever to find someone’s social media accounts. Many people have multiple social media accounts across different platforms. This can also lead to sexual harassment or online stalking. Co-workers may use your social media account in an inappropriate way. One example is writing comments on your posts that are sexual in nature. Even if the inappropriate comments occur outside of work hours, they can still be considered sexual harassment.
- Virtual meetings: As more team meetings are conducted online and through video, there is an increased risk of virtual harassment. There have been stories about employees intentionally exposing themselves during video meetings. Or even if they comment on your appearance through video (just like they would in person). This type of behavior might be considered illegal online sexual harassment.
Nobody should have to put up with online sexual harassment in the workplace. The effects can be just as same (or even worse) than in person sexual harassment. The first thing you should do is make sure you’re safe. The second thing you should do is contact an online sexual harassment in the workplace attorney for help.