Analyzing the Role of Media in Preventing Sexual Abuse of Girls in Cyberspace

In the present era which is known as the era of communications and technology revolution, cyberspace is considered as one of the most important tools in shaping the public opinion. The role of this media in preventing crime from happening is of interest to scholars and thinkers. The current study analyzes the role of the media in preventing sexual harassment of girls in cyberspace, because cyber space can, with its media policy, be able to provide appropriate solutions to reduce crime. The research method applied in the course of the study is descriptive and analytical and includes library materials and case files available at Iranian courts as well as the Cyber Police department. It also takes into account interviews conducted with sexual assault victims through semi-structured interview technique. The snowball sampling gathered from 30 victims of theoretical saturation. The findings of the study include: 1- Cyber-sexual harassment with various forms such as: cyber-propaganda, cyber-distortion, illicit intercourse, etc. 2- Given that women and girls are the main victims of this crime, the best way to prevent it is situational and social prevention.