New research shows that 49% of British women gamers have suffered online abuse, which rises to 75% for 18-24 year olds.
Of these, 80% received messages which were sexual in nature.
The new campaign from Sky Broadband and Guild Esports is aiming to raise awareness of the mistreatment of women in gaming.
More than 52% of women said they felt worried about abuse when playing video games online and 11% of respondents stated they were left feeling suicidal.
“As women the abuse we receive on a daily basis is simply unacceptable which is why campaigns like this are so important to challenge the gaming community to become part of the change,” said Stephanie Ijoma, Consultant, Gaming Entrepreneur and founder at NNESAGA.
“It’s crucial that we work together in making the online gaming world safer for women as there is absolutely no room for abuse.”
The survey of 4000 gamers found that 35% of women had received violent messages in the past, while 50% felt uncomfortable while live streaming, due to hate received by other players.
31% lied about their gender and remained anonymous during online gameplay and 40% felt personally threatened by the abuse they’ve experienced online, with 27% worried about being attacked in real life following threats made on gaming platforms.
The report is being used as the basis of a new campaign, featuring gamers Stephanie Ijoma, Sunpi, Elz the Witch and Danielle Udogaranya.
The images show abusive words that women have experienced whilst gaming online.
Gamers will take part in video content discussing what needs to be done about the rising issue of women’s abuse.
Sky Broadband has partnered with Cybersmile to create a series of interactive educational modules to raise awareness of sexist abuse in gaming, promoting personal safety and empowering gamers to be better informed.
“I’m proud to be part of this campaign which is shining a light on the real challenges women that play or stream games online face – which is often worse for women from racially diverse backgrounds. It’s hugely important that we not only raise awareness but encourage real action – there must be allyship for change to happen,” said Youtuber and presenter Elz the Witch.
The research also found that 51% of males reported they have witnessed female streamers being harassed on live streams and 66% of men and women agree that women are more likely to experience negative comments while gaming.
“The results of this research are shocking and should alarm the gaming community. It is completely unacceptable for this type of sexist abuse to be so prevalent. We are determined to improve the experience for women in gaming. We’re calling on players to become allies, and stand with us to make clear there is no room for abuse in gaming,” said Amber Pine, Managing Director, Broadband and Connectivity, Sky Broadband.
Jasmine Skee, CEO of Guild Esports added:
“Improving opportunities for women in esports is a key commitment of our partnership with Sky. While there’s still work to be done, we’re proud to be at the forefront of fostering greater female participation in the sector and creating an inclusive gaming community. We hope that by raising awareness of the abuse affecting female gamers through our #NoRoomForAbuse campaign, alongside a collective effort of support and education, we can make real progress in creating a better gaming experience for all.”
