Sexual harassment doesn’t just happen face-to-face. In today’s digital workplace, it can also happen through emails, messages, or social media. Online harassment can be just as damaging, and Delaware law takes it seriously.
What counts as online harassment at work?
Online harassment can include inappropriate messages, explicit photos, or repeated comments that make you uncomfortable. If someone sends you unwanted sexual content or makes suggestive remarks through work platforms, it crosses the line. It doesn’t matter if it happens outside of office hours or through personal devices—if it’s work-related, it matters.
Delaware follows federal guidelines under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which includes online behavior as part of workplace harassment. If the harassment creates a hostile work environment, it’s illegal.
What should you do if it happens?
First, save all messages or content. Screenshots, emails, and timestamps help show a pattern. Report the harassment to your HR department or manager. Employers are required to investigate and take action. If they don’t, they’re not meeting their legal obligations.
Delaware also requires many employers to provide sexual harassment prevention training. This training includes information about online harassment and how to report it.
Employer responsibilities under Delaware law
Employers in Delaware must keep the workplace safe, including virtual spaces. They should have a clear anti-harassment policy that covers digital communication. This policy should explain how to report problems and what happens next.
Companies with at least 50 employees must offer interactive sexual harassment training every two years. This helps make sure employees and managers understand what online harassment looks like and how to handle it.
The law protects you
You have the right to a respectful workplace, both in person and online. If someone crosses the line, Delaware law gives you options to respond. Speaking up can stop the behavior and protect others, too.
