CYBER VIOLENCE IN SPAIN: TYPES, VICTIMS AND AGGRESSORS

Introduction: This research intends to understand the dynamics of cyberviolence in Spain through the analysis of the pieces of news published in the newspaper El Pais. It aims to identify the most frequent victims and aggressors, as well as the main types of cyberviolence. Methodology: A sample of 60 cases of reported cyberviolence in El Pais from 2007 to the end of 2023 was examined by using Discourse Analysis. Results: Online violence has increased its presence in Spain, highlighting women as the most common victims, while men are mainly identified as aggressors. The most frequently observed types of violence include grooming, cyberbullying, non-consensual leaking of intimate content, and sexual and moral harassment. Discussion: Following global trends, girls and young women are the main victims. Also, the process of victimization of socially prominent women is highlighted. The discussion further underscores the underlying gender inequality in cyberviolence. Conclusions: There is a remarkable impunity regarding cyberviolence in Spain, characterized by the lack of accountability of digital platforms and a state regulation that is still perceived as insufficient.