Digital DefenSe: Online Safety for Indigenous Women

Darion Ducharme
Apr 26
2 min read

For Indigenous women, the internet can be both a powerful tool and a risky place.

It connects families, supports learning, and amplifies voices, but it can also open the door to scams, harassment, and online tracking. These risks are real, and they often affect Indigenous women in unique ways.

Teqare believes in digital empowerment through culturally respectful education. That’s why we’re sharing these online safety tips, designed specifically to help Indigenous women navigate the digital world with confidence and protection.

Why Online Safety Matters for Indigenous Women

From community leadership to activism and entrepreneurship, Indigenous women play vital roles online. But with visibility comes vulnerability. Many experience targeted scams, online harassment, or data misuse—especially when sharing cultural content, family stories, or advocacy work.

Creating safe digital habits isn’t just about protecting devices. It’s about protecting identity, culture, and the ability to use technology without fear. When we protect our sisters online, we protect communities, stories, and future generations.

Culturally Relevant Online Safety Tips

Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Choose passwords that are long, unique, and not connected to your name, birthday, or community. Consider phrases in your language, combined with symbols and numbers, to honour culture and boost strength.

Keep Personal Info Private

Be careful about posting your location, travel plans, or personal details. Scammers and bad actors often use this information to build fake relationships or target individuals for fraud.

Watch Out for Fake Friend Requests

Always verify who you’re connecting with—especially on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Scammers often pretend to be someone you may know from another Nation or event.

Report Harassment or Suspicious Messages

If someone makes you feel unsafe, block them and report the message or account. You have the right to feel respected online. Encourage friends to do the same and support each other by sharing experiences.

Protect Cultural Knowledge Online

Be cautious when posting images, stories, or ceremonies that may be sacred or intended for the community only. Always consider how content might be shared or misused once it’s online.

Digital Spaces Should Be Safe for Everyone

When online spaces are safe, Indigenous women can thrive—leading digital change, connecting with family, and sharing knowledge. But safety requires tools, awareness, and support. Teqare works closely with First Nation communities to make digital safety education inclusive and culturally meaningful.

Our workshops respect different learning styles and offer guidance that reflects the realities of rural connectivity, language differences, and lived experiences.

Support From Within the Circle

Online safety is stronger when it's shared. Talk with sisters, daughters, friends, and Elders about what’s happening online.

Host tech check-ins at family gatherings or community centres. Empower others with the knowledge you gain, and lean on trusted spaces like Teqare when you need help.