You Deserve a Safe Digital Space

Technology woven into our daily lives can be a powerful tool for connection and convenience. However, in the hands of an abuser, technology can become a tool for control, harassment, and surveillance. Technology-facilitated abuse is a growing form of domestic violence that can be subtle but just as damaging, creating a pervasive sense of fear and isolation for victims.

In this blog post, we’ll explore what technology-facilitated abuse looks like, common tactics used by abusers, and steps survivors can take to protect themselves online.

What is Technology-Facilitated Abuse?

Technology-facilitated abuse involves an abuser using digital means—like phones, social media, apps, or other devices—to control, harass, or monitor their partner. The digital nature of this form of abuse makes it challenging to recognize and, unfortunately, even more complicated to escape. Victims may feel like there’s no safe place as their online and offline worlds become intertwined with the abuser’s attempts to control them.

Common Tactics of Technology-Facilitated Abuse

Here are some ways that abusers use technology to manipulate or control their partners:

1. Constant Monitoring
   Abusers may use GPS tracking, location-sharing, or other apps to follow their partner’s movements. By tracking where someone is in real-time, abusers can make it difficult for their partners to find any sense of privacy or safety.

2. Invasion of Privacy
   Technology-facilitated abuse often includes invasive tactics like checking personal messages, emails, social media accounts, or even financial records without permission. This constant surveillance can create an environment where the victim feels unable to communicate or make decisions independently.

3. Cyberstalking and Online Harassment
   Abusers may use digital platforms to harass, threaten, or intimidate their partners repeatedly. Through social media, messaging apps, and even email, this form of abuse can make it feel like there’s no escape, even after physical separation.

4. Fake Profiles and Deceptive Accounts
   Abusers sometimes create fake accounts to manipulate or deceive their partners. This may include posing as someone else to gain information, threaten or intimidate their victim, or even interact with their friends and family.

5. Image-Based Abuse
   Threats to share or publicly post private images without consent—often called “revenge porn”—is another tactic abusers use to control and intimidate their partners. This form of abuse exploits personal photos as a means of control, leaving victims feeling vulnerable and violated.

Steps to Protect Yourself Against Technology-Facilitated Abuse

If you or someone you know is experiencing technology-facilitated abuse, some steps can help regain control and increase privacy. Here are a few to consider:

• Change Passwords Regularly: Secure your accounts by using strong, unique passwords and updating them regularly. This includes social media, email, banking, and other personal accounts.

• Review App Permissions: Check the permissions on your devices and turn off any location-sharing or data access that could be used to track or monitor you.

• Disable Location Services: Turn off location sharing on apps, devices, and accounts. Share your location only with trusted people.

• Check for Unknown Apps or Devices: Look for unfamiliar apps or devices connected to your accounts, especially on your phone or home devices. An abuser may install tracking apps without your knowledge.

• Use Trusted Support Networks: Local and national organizations that support survivors of domestic violence often provide resources on navigating tech-related abuse safely. They can offer additional tips and help create a safety plan.

You Deserve a Safe Digital Space

Domestic violence should never extend to your devices, your online accounts, or your digital spaces. Technology-facilitated abuse is a serious issue, but with awareness and the right resources, survivors can take steps to protect themselves and regain control over their digital lives.

Remember, you’re not alone. Trusted organizations, family, and friends are here to support you and advocate for your safety online and offline. By raising awareness, we can work together to ensure digital spaces are safe for everyone.

If you need immediate assistance, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Some people care and want to help.

Together, we can create a world where technology supports connection and safety, not control and abuse. 💜