When dealing with sexual abuse, we might think it only occurs in person, and involved physical contact. Unfortunately, that’s not the only form of sex abuse. You might have noticed some suspicious behavior online, and now you’re wondering, “Can sex abuse occur over the Internet?”
Sexual abuse isn’t limited to in-person interactions. Many people suffer from sexual harassment at the hands of other Internet users, and when that happens, you deserve to be compensated for that abuse.
Finding the person responsible can be complex. Because cases involving online harassment and abuse are relatively new, it can be difficult to file a claim on your own. Having a sex abuse lawyer in Chicago on your side can provide you with the resources and knowledge to recover the compensation you deserve.
How Does Sexual Abuse Happen Online?
When discussing online harassment, some people might blame the victim, arguing that they can simply turn off the computer and leave the harmful situation. But, sexual abuse—including the kind that occurs online—isn’t that simple.
Sexual abuse happens online when predatory abusers seek out vulnerable targets. For example, a pornographer might reach out via chat forums to other Internet users to coerce them into sexual activity. The abuser might ask for photos or other personal information. That information can later be used to ensure the victim doesn’t report the abuse for fear of retaliation.
Online harassment should be taken seriously even when no physical contact has happened. The effects of sex abuse, whether it involves physical touch, can be devastating. A sex abuse lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Effects of Internet Sex Abuse
Sexual abuse comes in many forms, but they can all cause serious mental and emotional trauma to the victim. For example, you might have received threatening and manipulative messages to expose private, sexual pictures of yourself. Or someone might have released these photos against your will. Maybe you also experienced additional harassment before or after that event.
These incidents could cause feelings of depression, traumatic flashbacks, and nightmares related to your online attack. These are symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, and they can severely affect your quality of life. You might have trouble going to work or doing things you once enjoyed. Even leaving your home can become difficult due to PTSD.
Without including the financial aspects of your abuse, the emotional impact on your life might already be devastating. Your abuser should be held accountable for the damage they caused you or your loved one. But what can you do?
Contact a Lawyer for Help
Online sexual abuse is a growing form of abuse. But, because of this modern method of harassment, many victims might not be aware that they can receive compensation for their suffering. Fortunately, with a lawyer from Lane Brown, LLC, you don’t have to continue wondering: “Can sex abuse occur over the Internet?”
Internet sex abuse is real, and it’s occurring more frequently every day. Fortunately, you can file a claim against your abuser, beginning with a free consultation with our attorneys.
For help preparing and fighting for your claim, reach out to us by calling 312-332-1400 or by completing the online form below.
