This study investigates whether and to what extent experiencing online hate speech affects victims' feelings of insecurity. Using data from a representative survey of 4,102 individuals in Lower Saxony, Germany, the researchers tested three hypotheses regarding the impact of online and offline hate speech on feelings of insecurity. The findings indicate that victims of online hate speech experience a more pronounced sense of insecurity outside the Internet compared to non-victims, while victims of other cybercrimes do not show significant differences. Offline hate speech did not significantly affect feelings of insecurity when controlling for relevant variables. The study suggests that the characteristics of online hate speech, such as its uncontrollable spread and reach into private spheres, contribute to increased feelings of insecurity. The results highlight the importance of addressing online hate speech as it can have lasting effects on victims' mental health and well-being. The study also emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and policies to protect victims and reduce the impact of online hate speech on society.This study investigates whether and to what extent experiencing online hate speech affects victims' feelings of insecurity. Using data from a representative survey of 4,102 individuals in Lower Saxony, Germany, the researchers tested three hypotheses regarding the impact of online and offline hate speech on feelings of insecurity. The findings indicate that victims of online hate speech experience a more pronounced sense of insecurity outside the Internet compared to non-victims, while victims of other cybercrimes do not show significant differences. Offline hate speech did not significantly affect feelings of insecurity when controlling for relevant variables. The study suggests that the characteristics of online hate speech, such as its uncontrollable spread and reach into private spheres, contribute to increased feelings of insecurity. The results highlight the importance of addressing online hate speech as it can have lasting effects on victims' mental health and well-being. The study also emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and policies to protect victims and reduce the impact of online hate speech on society.