The Rise of Digital Sex Work

The internet has transformed sex work, with workers going online to attract clients, shape personas, share information, screen potential clients, and build community. Kurt Fowler's "The Rise of Digital Sex Work" explores the changing face of the industry, telling the stories of workers and revealing how they use the internet to share information, grow their businesses, and establish global communities.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2023
Publisher: New York University Press

The internet has had a profound impact on the nature of sex work, transforming it in ways that have never been seen before. In the past, sex workers relied on traditional methods such as street corners, brothels, and escort services to find clients and make a living. However, with the advent of the internet, sex work has become more accessible, decentralized, and anonymous.

One of the most significant ways that the internet has transformed sex work is by increasing the number of clients that sex workers can reach. With the click of a button, sex workers can now advertise their services online and reach a global audience. This has led to a significant increase in the demand for sex work, as well as a wider range of clients.

Another way that the internet has transformed sex work is by allowing sex workers to shape their personas and build their brands. Sex workers can now create websites, social media profiles, and videos that showcase their skills, interests, and personalities. This has allowed sex workers to differentiate themselves from their competitors and build a loyal following of clients.

The internet has also played a crucial role in the safety and security of sex workers. Sex workers can now use digital technology to screen potential clients, communicate with clients, and protect their personal information. This has led to a reduction in the risk of violence and exploitation, as sex workers can take control of their own professional lives.

However, the internet has also brought with it new challenges for sex workers. One of the biggest challenges is the prevalence of online harassment and discrimination. Sex workers are often subjected to abusive comments, threats, and even physical violence online. This can have a devastating impact on their mental health and well-being, and can make it difficult for them to work safely and securely.

Another challenge is the regulation of sex work. Many countries have laws and regulations that prohibit sex work, and sex workers can face legal consequences if they are caught breaking these laws. This can make it difficult for sex workers to work legally and safely, and can limit their access to basic rights and protections.

Despite these challenges, sex work continues to thrive on the internet. Sex workers are using digital technology to their advantage to build their businesses, establish global communities, and advocate for their rights. There are also organizations and activists working to support sex workers and promote their rights, such as the Sex Workers' Rights Project and the International Labour Organization.

In conclusion, the internet has transformed sex work in ways that have never been seen before. It has increased the number of clients that sex workers can reach, allowed sex workers to shape their personas and build their brands, and played a crucial role in the safety and security of sex workers. However, the internet has also brought with it new challenges, such as online harassment and discrimination, and the regulation of sex work. Despite these challenges, sex work continues to thrive on the internet, and sex workers are using digital technology to their advantage to build their businesses, establish global communities, and advocate for their rights.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781479824151