As more work shifts to email, messaging apps, and remote platforms, workplace harassment has taken on new forms. Inappropriate jokes, offensive comments, or repeated messages may not happen face-to-face—but that doesn’t make them any less harmful. Whether you’re in the office or working from home, online harassment can create a toxic work environment and violate your legal rights.
At Lipsky Lowe LLP, we represent employees across NYC in workplace harassment and retaliation cases—including those involving remote or tech-based misconduct. If you’re being targeted through digital channels, we can help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
What Is Online Workplace Harassment?
Online harassment refers to inappropriate, hostile, or offensive behavior that happens through digital communication but is still connected to the workplace. It doesn’t matter whether the conduct takes place over email, Slack, Zoom, text, or social media—if it creates a hostile or uncomfortable work environment, it may be unlawful.
Common examples include:
- Repeated inappropriate jokes or suggestive comments sent through chat or email
- Unwanted sexual or romantic messages
- Offensive memes or images shared in group channels
- Public humiliation or bullying on internal messaging platforms
- Social exclusion or manipulation within workplace digital groups
- Use of social media to harass, embarrass, or intimidate a colleague
This behavior can come from coworkers, supervisors, clients, or even vendors. If it’s related to your job and it impacts your well-being at work, it may give rise to legal action.
Legal Protections in NYC
Online harassment isn’t a gray area. It’s covered by New York City and State anti-harassment laws—and sometimes federal law as well.
Under the New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL), employees are protected against workplace harassment tied to a wide range of personal characteristics.
One of the key benefits of the NYC law is that it does not require harassment to be “severe or pervasive”—a standard that often limits claims under federal law. Instead, the NYCHRL focuses on whether the behavior subjects the employee to inferior terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.
In addition, the New York State Human Rights Law extends protections to employees at smaller companies (with as few as one employee) and also applies a lower burden of proof than federal law. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the primary federal law, does apply to online harassment, but usually only in workplaces with 15 or more employees and under stricter standards.
Regardless of the law, your employer has a duty to prevent and respond to harassment—including digital conduct.
What to Do If You’re Experiencing Online Harassment
If you think you’re being harassed online in connection with your job, take the following steps:
- Save everything. Screenshots, emails, chat logs, and timestamps can all serve as evidence. Even if the sender deletes the message, your records may still prove what happened.
- Keep a personal record. Document who said what, when, how it made you feel, and how it affected your ability to work.
- Report it internally. If your company has an HR department or anti-harassment policy, follow the steps outlined there. Try to report in writing so you have a paper trail.
- Watch for retaliation. If your hours are cut, your responsibilities change, or you’re treated differently after speaking up, that could be a separate legal violation. NYC and state law prohibit retaliation for reporting harassment—even informally.
- Contact an attorney. It’s never too early to speak with a lawyer. Whether or not you file a claim, a legal consultation can help you understand your options and what steps make the most sense in your situation.
How Lipsky Lowe Can Support You
Online harassment may feel isolating—especially in a remote or hybrid environment—but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Lipsky Lowe, we’ve worked with employees across New York City in all types of workplace harassment and retaliation claims.
We understand how digital communication has changed the way harassment happens—and we know how to hold employers accountable when they fail to act. Whether you’re dealing with inappropriate messages, exclusion from virtual meetings, or harassment over social media, we can help you build your case and protect your rights.
We offer compassionate, strategic legal representation and will walk you through your options every step of the way.
Facing Online Harassment At Work? Contact Lipsky Lowe
If you’re experiencing online harassment at work, Lipsky Lowe can help. We have a proven history of protecting NYC workers from harassment in all its forms. Reach out today.