New findings show digital media literacy training strengthens safety, wellbeing and resilience for survivors of online abuse
OTTAWA — April 7, 2026 — On World Health Day, MediaSmarts is highlighting new results from its Resilience Through DigitalSmarts program, which helps survivors of technology-facilitated violence—also known as online or digital abuse—build the digital media literacy skills needed to safely participate in today’s online world.
The national program, made possible thanks to funding from the Public Health Agency of Canada, equips survivors and the practitioners who support them with practical strategies for online safety, privacy protection and digital resilience through workshops and educational resources.
Participants reported that stronger digital media literacy skills helped them access essential services such as housing, employment, education and health supports, while reconnecting safely with online communities. The findings demonstrate the need to treat technology-facilitated violence as a public health issue.
“Survivors of tech-facilitated violence are often told the solution is simply to stay offline, but that’s not realistic in a world where work, education, services and community all happen online,” said Dr. Kara Brisson-Boivin, Director of Research at MediaSmarts. “What survivors need are the skills, tools and supports to navigate digital spaces safely and confidently. Programs like Resilience Through DigitalSmarts show that digital media literacy training can be a powerful public health intervention.”
The program also addressed a growing digital equity gap. Survivors experiencing violence often face additional barriers to accessing technology safely, such as surveillance, harassment, or financial limitations. Digital literacy education helps ensure survivors are not excluded from essential online services and opportunities.
MediaSmarts says the findings highlight an opportunity to integrate digital media literacy and online safety training into the systems that support survivors, including shelters, community services and the legal system.
“There is a clear need for digital media literacy training not only for survivors but also for the practitioners who support them,” added Brisson-Boivin. “Embedding this knowledge across support systems, especially in law-enforcement, will strengthen our collective ability to prevent and respond to technology-facilitated violence.”
Program partner quotes:
“The digital safety workshops have been a great support for our clients, offering clear and practical tips they can actually use in their day-to-day lives. Many clients shared that they found the sessions easy to follow and relevant to their experiences. Most participants said the information was really useful and something they’ve been able to apply right away. We’ve already seen clients putting what they learned into practice and feeling more confident online. Overall, the workshops have made a positive difference for the people we serve.” - Syma Nehal, Program Director, Nisa Foundation
“It’s inspiring to see participants recognize their growth journey. Understanding that there is always more to learn empowers women fleeing violence to build confidence, resilience, and independence as they navigate new challenges and opportunities.” - Mina Uweh, Manager, Transition Houses, YWCA BC
“I used to think I knew everything about technology, but now I realize how much more there is to learn.” - Workshop participant, YWCA BC
“It’s inspiring to see participants embrace a growth mindset. Technology is constantly evolving, and recognizing there’s always more to learn is an important step in staying curious and adaptable.” - Workshop facilitator, YWCA BC
By early 2026, the initiative had exceeded its original targets and:
- Delivered 87 workshops nationwide
- Reached 116 survivors
- Distributed 263 online safety handouts and resources, with program videos viewed more than 2,000 times
- Trained 48 practitioners across 16 organizations
Evaluation findings from the program’s final report show strong impact:
- 98% of survivors reported increased knowledge or skills related to online safety, privacy and digital media literacy
- 80% of practitioners reported improved knowledge and confidence supporting survivors experiencing technology-facilitated violence
- 95% of survivors reported improved wellbeing or quality of life following participation
- 92% of survivors reported positive behaviour changes such as greater confidence and a stronger sense of online safety
- 70% of practitioners reported changes to organizational policies or programming, including incorporating program resources into safety planning
MediaSmarts notes that while the Resilience Through DigitalSmarts program has demonstrated strong impact, the initial funding for the initiative has now concluded. The organization is seeking additional support to continue and expand the program so more survivors and service providers across Canada can access digital media literacy training and online safety planning resources.
Researchers, organizations, practitioners and policymakers interested in accessing the full suite of program resources, MediaSmarts-led training opportunities, or exploring collaboration are encouraged to contact: [email protected]
Media Contact
Tricia Grant
Director of Marketing & Communications
MediaSmarts
[email protected]
613-224-7721 ext. 231
About MediaSmarts
MediaSmarts is Canada’s centre for digital media literacy. For 30 years, the organization has developed research-based programs and resources that help people of all ages develop the critical thinking and digital skills they need to engage safely, responsibly and confidently online.