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As a spicy content creator, it’s pretty typical to deal with online harassment but something first and foremost to know is how to navigate it when it concerns your safety. I’ve experienced it quite a few times since I’ve become a creator even with non-explicit content. Dealing with online harassment can be difficult, but there are steps you can take as a content creator to help mitigate and address the issue. In most cases I find it best to stay calm and do not engage. It’s essential not to respond to the harasser or engage in any argument.
Responding may only escalate the situation. Most harassers are just there looking for a freebie and when first ignored tend to get the hint. Instead, keep your focus on creating and sharing your content with those who appreciate your business. When it becomes more persistent, I’ve found it necessary to document the harassment. Take screenshots or screen record instances of the harassment as evidence. This documentation will be useful if you decide to report the harassment to the appropriate platform or authorities later on. Cover your bases and keep a file for yourself on said person/incidents so it can be traced back and used if need be. I know some of this may sound drastic but given the nature of Unfiltrd its better to be safe then sorry.
Don’t be hesitant to set privacy and moderation settings. On Unfiltrd we can add fans to lists and limit certain contact with them between messages and our feeds. Don’t be afraid to block a user. You’re not missing out on someone who couldn’t respect you to begin with.These features will allow you to filter out or block certain types of comments, messages, or users. Report the harassment to support.Unfiltrd has support as a reporting system in place to address harassment. Use Support to notify the Unfiltrd about the abusive behavior. Be sure to provide any necessary evidence documentation. Support will take swift action to ensure the abuse stops and no one else endures with it.
Many times, continued abuse is by scammers or people who think they’ll never get caught because their screen protects them. Unfiltrd wants to ensure the safety of all its creators. If the harassment becomes severe or persistent, you may want to consult a legal professional or seek advice from organizations specializing in online harassment.* They can provide guidance on how to deal with the situation legally and protect your rights and safety.
Online harassment can take a toll on your mental well-being. Make sure to prioritize self-care by engaging in activities that help you relax and destress. Seek professional help if needed. Sometimes we don’t know the lasting effects the abuse can have. In one of the worst instances that I dealt with, I had a guy from 3 states away messaging me as I was just starting out as a creator. I was shy and didn’t know my boundaries or how to go about telling fans no. He tried to be reassuring in telling me to do things I wasn’t comfortable with. He was manipulative and continued to offer more money but I never did anything I said no to. He got more desperate and invasive on learning about me. At the time I was on 90 Day Fiance and it wasn’t hard to dig and find information on me. At one point he messaged me while DRIVING THROUGH THE TOWN I LIVED IN and left me weird voice memos telling me he was going to come find me. He got more and more aggressive. I had already been documenting this as he creeped me out. Ignoring him somehow made it worse and when I blocked him, he found my other social media. He told me he was going to show up at my bartending jobs. I filed a police report and it was only when I learned his name was Scott, where he worked and found his daughter online that he backed off. I told him if the police couldn’t step in yet then I was going to share EVERYTHING with his daughter. I knew grandpa wouldn’t be visiting for a while if she’d seen the things he was saying and doing. I did everything I could do to not escalate the situation and protect my well-being. It was only when he was backed against a wall and his life was in the balance that he just disappeared. I was scared but had a good support system that I could talk to that helped me through it.
Unfortunately for some, we’re just faces on a screen, not individuals with real lives beyond it. It’s not always recognized as it should be. Remember, online harassment is never your fault, and you have the right to feel safe and respected as a content creator.
xoxo
Heather
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