Cyber Violence Climbing: AI-Driven Abuses Target Women and Children in Bangladesh
Cyber and gender-based violence in Bangladesh has seen an alarming rise in the first half of 2025, according to a report released by Cyber Support for Women and Children (CSWC), a coalition of organizations working to prevent digital violence. From January to June, the coalition recorded 29 documented cases of cyber violence, many of which involved multilayered criminal activity such as AI-generated fake nude images, rape video blackmail, and the distribution of pornographic content.
The findings were shared with the media in a report issued by CSWC on the evening of Tuesday, July 8.
CSWC highlighted that the majority of incidents occurred in March and April, with 9 and 10 cases respectively—accounting for over 65% of the total. Dhaka city recorded the highest number of incidents at 13, solidifying its role as the epicenter of digital crimes in the country. Among the victims, 76% were women, 21% were underage girls, and 3% were men.
A professional breakdown showed that 41.3% of the victims were students, followed by 20.7% homemakers, and others including NGO workers, businesspersons, and sales staff. The professions of the remaining 27.5% could not be identified.
According to the report, over 70% of the cases involved multiple offenses occurring simultaneously, such as rape, video recording, blackmail, and digital distribution. In one of the most disturbing findings, victims as young as 8 and 12 were recorded and blackmailed. In at least one instance, AI technology was used to fabricate fake nude images, causing significant harm to victims’ personal security, mental health, and social dignity. CSWC warned that such tech-driven crimes are weakening the moral foundation of society and pose a grave threat to the future.
“Digital safety for women is no longer a luxury—it is a fundamental right,” CSWC stated. “While artificial intelligence is unlocking new possibilities, it is also becoming a dangerous weapon in the hands of criminals.” The organization urged the government to take swift and effective measures to combat cyber and gender-based violence, including exemplary punishment for perpetrators, policies to protect victim confidentiality, and the strengthening of awareness campaigns.
CSWC was established under the leadership of the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST), with 14 member organizations. The coalition is convened by BLAST, co-convened by the Cyber Crime Awareness Foundation (CCAF), and coordinated by Naripokkho. Other member organizations include Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), BRAC, Article 19, Arodhyo Foundation, The Tech Academy, BIGF, IID, Digitally Right Ltd, Bangladesh Mahila Parishad, Cyber Teens, and HRSS.
