Technology-facilitated abuse is a form of domestic abuse where technology is used to monitor, control, intimidate, harass or exploit another person. It is often part of a wider pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour and can continue during and after a relationship has ended. As technology becomes increasingly embedded in everyday life, domestic abuse can also be perpetrated through mobile phones, social media, online accounts, location-sharing services, smart devices and other digital platforms.
Signs to Look Out For
Technology-facilitated abuse can take many forms. Potential indicators may include:
- A person’s whereabouts appear to be known or monitored unexpectedly.
- Excessive calls, messages or online contact, particularly where there is pressure to respond immediately.
- Concerns about someone else having access to a person’s phone, email, social media accounts or passwords.
- Unexplained changes to account settings, passwords or device configurations.
- Concerns about being tracked through phones, smartwatches, vehicles, apps or other connected devices.
- Evidence or suspicion that online activity, communications or digital accounts are being monitored.
- Threats involving the sharing of private information, photographs, videos or messages.
- Online harassment, stalking or repeated unwanted contact through digital platforms.
- Smart devices within the home being used to monitor, intimidate or control someone.
- Anxiety, fear or reluctance when discussing technology, online activity or digital safety
Technology-facilitated abuse is often part of a wider pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour. Actions that appear straightforward, such as changing passwords, disabling location services or altering device settings, may not always be the safest option and could increase risk in some circumstances. Any response should consider the individual’s situation, level of risk and support needs, with specialist domestic abuse advice sought where appropriate.
Further Information and Support