Tech Abuse: Digital Surveillance, Harassment and Control

As an integral part of our lives, technology offer countless benefits but can also be a tool for harm. Technology-facilitated abuse – often referred to as tech abuse – is a form of domestic abuse. This is where technology is used to control, harass, monitor, or intimidate partners.

Tech abuse happens when technology is used to harm or exert control. This can include monitoring someone’s activity, using spyware or tracking devices, sending threatening messages or posting harmful content on social media, hacking online accounts or creating fake profiles to damage a victim’s reputation, and / or restricting access to devices, accounts, or financial systems.

This kind of digital surveillance, online harassment, and control via technology often overlaps with other forms of domestic abuse and can sometimes be difficult to detect.

Tech abuse rarely exists in isolation and is often part of a broader pattern of domestic abuse. Perpetrators will use technology to monitor or isolate victims, often paired with emotional or financial abuse. Sexual abuse, including deepfakes, can be part of tech abuse, particularly the sharing, or threat of sharing, intimate images. By amplifying traditional forms of abuse, technology allows perpetrators to extend their reach, making victims feel constantly vulnerable.

Signs that you are experiencing tech abuse include if your partner constantly checks your phone, social media, or emails. You may have discovered spyware on your devices, suspect your movements are being tracked, or have been receiving repeated, threatening messages or found false information posted about you online. You may have also been locked out of shared online systems like banking or utilities.

There are several things you can do if you suspect you’re being targeted by technology-facilitated abuse. If you are able, secure your devices by changing passwords, updating security settings, and reviewing app permissions. Again, if you are able to, try and gather evidence of the abuse – for example by saving messages and screenshots. You can report the abuse to the police, who can investigate and take action, and reach out to charities and support organisations.

Tech abuse can happen or escalate following divorce or separation. Perpetrators may exploit shared devices, accounts, or technology to track your location, interfere with new relationships or social circles, or continue harassment through calls, messages, or online platforms.

If you suspect you’re being targeted by technology-facilitated abuse, there are various resources and support you can access:

Police: Report incidents of tech abuse for investigation and potential prosecution.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline: A confidential helpline offering advice and guidance (0808 2000 247 in the UK).

Charities and Organisations: Groups like Refuge provide specialist support, including tech safety guidance.

Family Law Solicitors: Legal professionals can help secure protective orders, such as non-molestation orders, to prevent further abuse.

Tech abuse is a pervasive and insidious form of domestic abuse that can have profound emotional, financial, and personal consequences. Recognising the signs, taking action to protect yourself, and seeking legal and emotional support can help end the cycle of abuse.

As leading family lawyers in Milton Keynes, we can help support you. In addition to our head office in Milton Keynes, we also have solicitors in Bicester, divorce solicitors in Watford, and Central London. Talk to us in confidence and find out where you stand. Get in touch – we’re here to help.

This article is intended for the use of our clients and other interested parties. The information contained in it reflects the author’s view and is believed to be correct at the date of publication. However, it is necessarily of a brief and general nature and should not be relied upon as a substitute for specific professional legal advice.