Yes. Sexual harassment can happen during a video meeting just as it can in a physical office. If a coworker or supervisor makes sexual comments, sends unwanted messages or shares inappropriate content during an online call, the conduct may create a workplace harassment issue.
The question matters more than ever, as more employees now work from home or on hybrid schedules. Zoom, Microsoft Teams and similar platforms are still work settings. The fact that the meeting happens on a screen does not make rude or sexual conduct acceptable.
Examples of harassment in video meetings
For remote workers in Indianapolis and across the country, the fact that the meeting happens on a screen does not make rude or sexual conduct acceptable. The following are examples of conduct that may qualify as harassment in a video meeting:
- Someone appearing partially unclothed on camera
- A sexually explicit virtual background or shared screen
- Comments about your appearance, clothing, home or living space
- Unwanted private messages sent to you during the meeting
- Crude jokes or sexual comments in the chat
- A supervisor suggesting job benefits depend on accepting their advances
Not every offensive comment will meet the legal standard for harassment, but repeated or serious conduct may. The facts matter, including who made the comment, how often it happened and whether it affected your work.
How to document and report video meeting harassment
If this happens, save the chat messages, take screenshots and write down what was said. Report the conduct through your employer’s process if you can do so safely. If the behavior continues or your employer does not respond, you may want to speak with an employment lawyer about your options.
Online meetings should still follow the same basic workplace rules. When someone crosses the line during a video call, the same legal protections that apply in a physical office apply online and the same steps are available to you.
