The AI Ally Project: Designing a Human-Centred AI Tool for Women's Safety in Online Spaces

Abstract

Online gender-based harassment is a widespread and persistent issue that disproportionately affects girls, young women, and gender diverse individuals. Systemic barriers, such as ineffective reporting mechanisms and fear of retaliation, often prevent victims and bystanders from taking action to address harm. These barriers emphasise the need for innovative, human-centred approaches to online safety. The AI Ally project is developing a trauma-informed, co-designed artificial intelligence (AI) tool that supports victims and witnesses of online harassment. The tool provides victims and witnesses with practical ways to document, reflect on, and report harassment, with the goal of empowering user..