The rise of deepfake technology has introduced a new dimension of digital threats, affecting
female users by compromising their psychological safety and altering their online and offline
behaviors. This study explores the psychological and behavioral responses of women to deepfake
threats, focusing on the emotional distress, self-censorship behaviors, and defensive strategies
they adopt. Using Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR), we conducted in-depth, semi-
structured interviews with female social media users to investigate how deepfake awareness
influences their experiences and actions. Findings reveal that deepfake exposure generates
anxiety, helplessness, and a pervasive sense of violation, even among those not directly
victimized. Behavioral changes included digital withdrawal, online self-censorship, and
increased privacy settings to mitigate perceived risks. Additionally, offline defensive behaviors
such as mask-wearing, avoiding photographs, and carrying self-defense tools emerged as
compensatory mechanisms to regain a sense of control. These findings underscore the chilling
effect of deepfake threats on women's participation in digital spaces, contributing to broader
discussions on technology-facilitated gender-based violence, psychological safety, and online
autonomy. The study calls for stronger platform accountability, policy interventions, and digital
literacy programs to address deepfake-related harm and support women's online security.