Rise of #MeTooBots: scientists develop AI to detect harassment in emails

City firms experimenting with tech that flags harassment but critics question effectiveness

Artificial intelligence programmers are developing bots that can identify digital bullying and sexual harassment.

Known as "#MeTooBots" after the high-profile movement that arose after allegations against the Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein, the bots can monitor and flag communications between colleagues and are being introduced by companies around the world.