Cyberbullying Prevalence Among Women and Men
In 2024, the prevalence of cyberbullying among women internet users increased slightly from 22.0% in 2023 to 22.2%. For men, the cyberbullying prevalence remained stable at 16.9% of internet users between 2023 and 2024, according to the Módulo sobre Ciberacoso (Mociba) by Inegi.
General Population Overview
On average, 2 out of every 10 internet users experienced some form of digital aggression, ranging from offensive messages to identity theft or receiving explicit content without consent. In absolute terms, 18.9 million people faced violence in virtual spaces.
Young Women Most Vulnerable
Although the gender gap in cyberbullying prevalence is narrow, it still indicates that women are more vulnerable to digital violence. This reflects the fact that, despite growing internet connectivity, the digital space is not equally safe for everyone.
Women are not only more likely to be victims of cyberbullying but also face specific forms of online violence that impact their well-being and participation in the public digital sphere. The prevalence of this phenomenon demands immediate attention and tailored strategies for prevention and combat.
By age group, young women are particularly susceptible; 31.1% of women aged 20-29 who use the internet were victims of cyberbullying in the past 12 months.
This demographic, being the most active on social media and other digital platforms, is at the forefront of exposure to this type of violence, which can have severe implications for their personal and professional development.
In terms of education level, 36.4% of cyberbullying victims were women with basic education. While cyberbullying does not discriminate based on education, these statistics suggest that awareness and protection strategies should be accessible and adaptable to diverse populations, including those with limited access to formal education or advanced technological resources, such as rural or indigenous communities.
Regional breakdowns show critical points for cyberbullying against women in Mexico: Yucatán leads with 30.6% of women victims, followed by San Luis Potosí (30.5%) and Durango (28.5%).
Time spent online also emerges as a significant factor in the prevalence of aggressions; women who experienced cyberbullying spent an average of 5.6 hours per day online, an hour more than the general population.
This increased exposure to the digital environment, while not a cause of harassment, does increase opportunities for it to occur, highlighting the need to promote safe and conscious internet usage habits.
Cyberbullying as a Reflection of Gender-Based Violence
The persistence of cyberbullying against women in Mexico is not just a statistic but a reflection of gender-based violence that is transferred and amplified in the digital realm.
The consequences for victims can be devastating, affecting their mental health, reputation, and sense of security. It is crucial for society, institutions, and tech companies to take responsibility in creating a safe and inclusive digital environment.
Cyberbullying Prevention
According to UNICEF, cyberbullying primarily affects girls, boys, and adolescents. Therefore, prevention policies should focus on these populations.
Additionally, an intersectional perspective that considers gender-based, ethnic-racial, age, or other condition-related aggressions (such as disability or socioeconomic group membership) is essential.
Coordinated action is required, including early digital education, strengthening legal frameworks, improving reporting mechanisms and support for victims, as well as increased accountability from digital platforms to ensure user protection.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current prevalence of cyberbullying among women internet users? The prevalence increased slightly from 22.0% in 2023 to 22.2% in 2024.
- How does cyberbullying prevalence compare between men and women? While 22.2% of women experienced cyberbullying, the prevalence for men remained stable at 16.9%.
- Which groups are most vulnerable to cyberbullying? Young women, particularly those aged 20-29, are more susceptible to cyberbullying.
- What factors contribute to increased vulnerability? Limited access to education, lower education levels, and higher time spent online can increase vulnerability.
- What are the consequences of cyberbullying for victims? Cyberbullying can negatively impact mental health, reputation, and sense of security.
- What strategies are needed to prevent cyberbullying? Early digital education, strengthened legal frameworks, improved reporting mechanisms, and increased accountability from digital platforms are essential.
