Online abuse
Telegram removes 'slut' lists, but concerns remain
The lists originated from the USC fraternity, whose headquarters are at Janskerkhof. Photo: DUB
Alongside the parents of the victims, who started a foundation called Stop de Bangalijsten (Stop Slut Lists, Ed.), Offlimits complained earlier this year about Telegram's refusal to remove the lists from its platform. Victims remained exposed as a result. The organisation and the parents also urged the European Commission and the Dutch Data Protection Authority to take action against Telegram.
Last week, Offlimits announced that Telegram has finally deleted the lists. What's more, the organisation now has a contact address to report undesirable content to Telegram.
Telegram under supervision
Nevertheless, concerns remain as the lists may still be found in non-public groups. Offlimits says it is investigating whether something can be done about that too.
According to the organisation, the supervisory authorities and the European Commission are currently evaluating the Russian messaging service. They expected stricter rules to befall the app shortly.
Student community shook
Several lists of this type have been published on Telegram this year. The first one was compiled by two members of Utrechtsch Studenten Corps (USC), a Utrecht-based fraternity. The list included several members of the UVSV sorority. A second list was made by a 26-year-old man from Groningen.
The files shook up the student community in Utrecht and many women were harassed by strangers, either by phone or on social media. The Executive Board urged USC to come up with a plan to address what is perceived as a sexist culture within the fraternity.