Encoxada is a term describing a form of sexual harassment where a perpetrator intentionally rubs their body, particularly the genitals, against an unsuspecting victim, usually in crowded public spaces like buses or subway cars [1, 2].
Some cities have apps that allow passengers to report incidents discreetly. The Future of Transit Safety (2026 Perspective)
: Installing high-definition CCTV cameras inside buses and at transit hubs acts as a powerful psychological deterrent and provides actionable legal evidence.
: An individual who consistently moves closer to you despite other available space opening up.
If you are navigating "portable" life on a bus, specific gear can help maintain a "buffer zone": encoxada in bus portable
The word "encoxada" does not have a simple, one-to-one translation in English, but it is closely related to the clinical term , a paraphilic disorder characterized by the recurrent, intense urge to rub one's genitals against a non-consenting person for sexual gratification.
: Avoid being fully distracted by mobile devices or noise-canceling headphones, which can lower your response time to your surroundings.
| Indicator | Percentage | Source | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Women who have been "encoxadas" | 35% | Extra Globo | | Women who have witnessed harassment | 67.24% | Brechando (Natal) | | Women who have faced unwanted touching | 35.50% | Brechando (Natal) | | Adults believing "encoxada" is sexual violence | 94% | Patrícia Galvão Institute |
To break physical contact and signal that you are aware of the situation. Encoxada is a term describing a form of
: Stand with your back against a bus wall, partition, or structural pole whenever possible to secure your rear boundary.
(meaning to be pressed against or rubbed against, often in a crowded space) into English, specifically referring to a "portable" or mobile scenario within a bus.
Many cities now offer dedicated apps (like the "Look Out" feature in some metro apps) to report non-consensual contact in real-time.
Features could also lean towards making buses more environmentally friendly, such as: : An individual who consistently moves closer to
Many systems now feature surveillance cameras, which act as a deterrent and provide evidence [1].
Technology is also being integrated into public transport infrastructure and personal accessories to enhance safety.
Combining technology with situational awareness forms the best defense against predatory behavior on public transit:
The bus is a public square, not a private prison. Don’t let a few seconds of encoxada steal your freedom of movement. Arm yourself with portable technology, look your harasser in the eye, and say the most powerful words a victim can say: