Someone is threatening to out me

Revealing someone’s gender identity or sexual orientation without consent can put them in serious danger. Here is how to protect yourself.

Practical guides 1 min read

Your identity is yours. Only you decide who knows, and when.

Why outing is dangerous

In Tunisia, being outed can lead to family rejection, losing housing or work, physical violence or legal problems. That is why we treat it as a potentially dangerous situation.

If someone is threatening you

  1. Don’t pay and don’t send anything: this is blackmail, and paying doesn’t stop it.
  2. Document the threat and keep the evidence somewhere safe.
  3. Reduce what can be found about you: clean up your accounts, hide friend lists, delete photos that could be used, and check your other accounts (dating apps…).
  4. Make a safety plan: where could you go if things get difficult at home? Who could you call?
  5. Ask for support from LGBTQI+-respectful services. We can point you to them.

If you have been outed

  • Your physical safety comes first. If you are in danger, see what to do now.
  • Report the posts: revealing someone’s orientation or identity is banned on most platforms.
  • Psychological support matters a lot at this time. You are not alone.

Before considering going to the authorities, ask for legal support to understand the risks and options.

Help us improve: two quick, anonymous questions
After using the platform, do you feel more able to recognise digital violence and know how to protect yourself?
Do you now know where to find help if you need it?

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