Combating online hate with #WiseUpWithWan

CYBERHARASSMENT is the third most dangerous threat after fraud and intrusion, as revealed by CyberSecurity Malaysia.

To raise awareness and implore people to self-regulate their online behaviour, PeopleACT (People Against Cyber Threats/Harassment), an initiative by the Malaysian Centre for Constitutionalism and Human Rights, under its UndiMsia! programme, has launched the #WiseUpWithWan campaign as part of its wider strategy to counter online hateful comments, shaming, intimidation, death and rape threats, and other forms of violence in cyberspace.

“Internet users often freely use words and images to provoke others, even those at their most vulnerable.

“But there’s a point when trolling escalates beyond the offensive and shocking into cyberharassment or cyberstalking.

“We want to showcase a message of defiance against cyberharassers, and encourage Netizens to choose their words wisely to stamp down violence and shoot down hate within our online space,” says campaigner Lim Ka Ea.

“Each poster carries a strong message.

“Words like: ‘Slut face, go back to your country!’, ‘If I see you, I’ll shoot you!’ or even unassuming remarks like ‘That’s so retarded!’ can be demeaning and hateful if not treated carefully.”

The campaign uses Wise Wan, a fictional character, to urge Netizens to think before they type and not let cyberharassment win.