‘In the end, you feel blank’: India’s female workers watching hours of abusive content to train AI

Female workers in rural India, often from marginalized backgrounds, are employed as 'ghost workers' to classify vast amounts of abusive and violent content—including sexual abuse and fatal accidents—to train global AI algorithms. Workers like Monsumi Murmu report severe psychological effects, including sleeplessness, intrusive thoughts, and emotional numbing, leading researchers to categorize content moderation as dangerous work comparable to lethal industries. Many workers are hired under vague job descriptions and face pressure not to report harm due to the scarcity of employment opportunities and the expectation of gratitude, especially for women who gain rare income without migrating. Companies often provide minimal or no psychological support, arguing the work isn't demanding enough, and strict non-disclosure agreements further isolate workers, preventing them from seeking help or discussing their trauma.

(Source：the Guardian)