In 2014 the ex-partner of video game maker Zoe Quinn released an online essay with intimate details of their relationship and breakup. The story takes on a life of its own when internet trolls start referencing it in misogynistic conspiracy theories posted on online forums. Soon Quinn is bombarded with serious threats of real world violence. When details of where she lives circulate, she flees her home.

Quinn was only the beginning as the harassments spread to others who were advocating for an inclusive gaming industry.

On this episode of Bad People, Dr Julia Shaw and Sofie Hagen share their own experience of having an online presence and discuss what online harassment really is and who is behind it. Whose responsibility is it to make the online World safe?

The episode contains audio from BBC News.

Warning: This episode contains descriptions of terrorism, threats of sexual violence and online abuse.

CREDITS

Presenters: Dr Julia Shaw and Sofie Hagen

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Bad People is produced in partnership with The Open University and is a BBC Audio Science Production for BBC Sounds.