Cyber Crimes Against Women in Tamil Nadu: Examining Legal Safeguards and Challenges Faced by Women

Abstract

The advancement of digital technology has significantly changed how people communicate, learn, work and obtain information. That advancement has also produced unequal opportunity, a gender divide and continuing barriers to women's participation. Women who use online platforms are increasingly targeted by cyber offences such as online harassment, cyberstalking, identity offences, cyberbullying and financial fraud, and these offences threaten women's privacy, freedom and safety in the digital sphere. This study examines the relationship between the digital gender divide and cybercrime against women in Tamil Nadu. It analyses the legal provisions and institutional mechanisms designed to address cyber offences and to promote digital equality, and it draws on a small self-selected online survey of 48 respondents. The study considers the place of cyber law, digital education, awareness and gender-focused cyber security measures, and it examines social restrictions, limited digital awareness and unequal access to technology. It concludes that stronger legal safeguards and wider awareness are needed if women are to participate safely and confidently in the digital world without fear of discrimination or cyber abuse.