As the online environment continues to expand, the Ministry of Internal Affairs is sounding the alarm over the rise in cases of digital violence – ranging from harassment and the non-consensual distribution of intimate images to sexual extortion and cyberstalking. These forms of abuse increasingly affect women and girls and have serious emotional and social consequences.
To raise public awareness about digital violence and the risks associated with online abuse, the public dialogue “Beyond the Screen: Digital Violence Is Real” was organized.
The Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniella Misail-Nichitin, attended the event, where she outlined the institutional response to these phenomena and explained the new legal tools that will enter into force in Februarie 2026.
The new provisions strengthen the state’s capacity to intervene quickly in cases of digital violence and give authorities clear mechanisms to protect victims.
The legislative reform explicitly defines what constitutes abusive online content and establishes firm penalties for behaviors that pose an immediate risk to victims. Digital stalking is now criminalized, with penalties of up to two years in prison, or three years when the victim is a family member. Online sexual harassment is also punishable, with penalties of up to four years, and up to seven years when the victim is a minor.
A key element is the obligation for perpetrators to delete all abusive materials from their devices and information systems, as well as the possibility for authorities to immediately remove illegal content from platforms. Intervention within the first 24 hours is crucial to prevent the spread of abusive material and limit the impact on victims.
“Online violence is a complex phenomenon, and the first 24 hours are decisive. The new provisions allow us to quickly remove or block abusive content to prevent its spread. But we need people to report it – silence leads to serious consequences, and the shame belongs to the aggressors, not the victims,” stated Minister Misail-Nichitin.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs encourages affected individuals and witnesses to promptly report any form of digital violence so that authorities can intervene swiftly and effectively.
