Italy Moves to Tackle Online Abuse Targeting Women

• Italian officials respond to shutdown of misogynistic websites amid growing concerns over digital exploitation and privacy violations.

Prime Minister Condemns Online Exploitation

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni (pictured) has publicly denounced the existence of a website that shared unauthorized and manipulated images of women, including herself. The site, phica.eu, had operated since 2005 and amassed over 200,000 registered users before being taken offline following legal complaints and widespread criticism. Meloni described the incident as a violation of women’s dignity and expressed solidarity with those affected. Her remarks were published in the Corriere della Sera, reflecting a broader national concern over digital misogyny.

The website’s name referenced a vulgar Italian slang term, underscoring its offensive nature. Content included doctored images and videos of female public figures, often accompanied by violent and obscene commentary. In addition to celebrities and politicians, the site featured photos of ordinary women, categorized by region. Administrators claimed the shutdown was due to “toxic behaviours” that undermined the platform’s original intent.

Broader Pattern of Online Misogyny

The closure of phica.eu follows another high-profile case involving the Facebook group Mia Moglie (“My Wife”), which was removed earlier this month. That group allowed users to share intimate photos of women without consent and had over 32,000 members before Meta, Facebook’s parent company, intervened. Author and activist Carolina Capria played a key role in mobilizing public complaints that led to the group’s removal. Meta stated the group violated its policy against adult sexual exploitation.

Meloni, Italy’s first female prime minister, emphasized the persistence of sexist abuse in digital spaces. She criticized the normalization of degrading behavior online, particularly when perpetrators hide behind anonymity. Equality Minister Eugenia Roccella responded to public pressure by announcing plans for stronger online protections and cultural reforms. These measures aim to address both the legal and societal dimensions of misogyny.

Legal Action and Political Response

Several public figures targeted by phica.eu have taken legal steps, including EU lawmaker Alessandra Moretti, who filed a criminal complaint. Moretti argued that such platforms contribute to a culture that incites violence and sexual aggression. Opposition leader Elly Schlein and influencer Chiara Ferragni were also among those whose images appeared on the site. The incident has prompted renewed calls for accountability and regulation in digital environments.

Italian lawmakers are now exploring legislative options to strengthen privacy protections and penalize non-consensual content sharing. The government’s response reflects growing awareness of the intersection between technology and gender-based violence. While the site’s closure marks a symbolic victory, experts warn that similar platforms may continue to operate under different guises. Sustained efforts will be needed to ensure meaningful change.