Guiltylighting

A digitallighting tactic that uses accusations of guilt to destabilize the target’s sense of self. The perpetrator repeatedly insists the target has done something unforgivable, often citing vague or exaggerated “evidence,” and refuses to accept any defense. The target begins to doubt their own memory and intentions, wondering if they really are the monster they’re being painted as. Guiltylighting is a common feature of cancel culture campaigns and organized harassment.

Example: “They circulated a thread claiming she had ‘caused harm’ with a comment five years ago. No matter how she explained the context, they insisted she knew what she was doing. Guiltylighting: making the target question their own moral compass.”

Guiltylighting by Abzugal April 1, 2026