Remote work has become a regular part of many people’s jobs. While you might think working from home keeps you safe from interactions that result in sexual harassment, sadly, that’s not always true. Harassment hasn’t disappeared in virtual work settings—it has just changed form. While remote work can cut down on face-to-face problems, new digital risks have emerged that every worker should understand.
How harassment shows up in remote settings
Remote work has changed how workplace harassment can occur. It might manifest in the following ways:
- Inappropriate messages or comments on workplace chat platforms
- Unwelcome remarks or jokes during video meetings
- Sharing offensive or sexual content during screen sharing
- Harassment through private messaging channels
- Pressuring you into one-on-one video meetings that make you uncomfortable
- Inappropriate dress or behavior on camera
These digital behaviors can create an intimidating, offensive or hostile work environment, just like in-person harassment can. You don’t need to accept this treatment just because you’re working from home.
Why remote harassment can be harder to address
Remote harassment creates unique challenges. Without others nearby, harassment can happen without witnesses, making it harder to prove what happened.
Many remote workers lack direct supervision, which can embolden harassers who think nobody is watching. Digital harassment can also feel more hidden, making victims less likely to report it.
Further, remote work can blur the lines between work and personal life. A harasser might think sending inappropriate messages after hours is acceptable because you’re “always online.”
Your rights as a remote worker
Sexual harassment is against the law, even in remote settings. It’s important to understand that harassment means unwelcome behavior that is severe or happens often enough to create an unreasonable work environment. A single awkward comment usually isn’t harassment, but repeated unwanted sexual remarks or images are.
Both federal and state laws protect Rhode Island workers from sexual harassment. Whether you are in an in-person or remote setting, you have legal protections and advocating for yourself and your coworkers is essential.
Remote work may change where you do your job, but it doesn’t change your right to a respectful workplace. By understanding how harassment happens virtually and knowing your rights, you can better protect yourself in today’s digital work environment.