Digital Domestic Abuse: A Form of Control and Manipulation Through Technology

Digital domestic abuse is a term used to describe the use of technology to control, intimidate, and harass a partner. This type of abuse often involves the use of text messaging, social media, and smartphone apps to exert power and control over another person. It can manifest in various ways, such as restricting online interactions, compulsively monitoring a partner’s social media activities, or using location sharing apps to constantly track their whereabouts.

In extreme cases, digital domestic abuse may involve the installation of spyware on a victim’s phone or unauthorized access to their online accounts. This form of abuse often accompanies physical or mental abuse, creating a toxic and dangerous environment for the victim.

The Metropolitan Police in the UK has identified several behaviors that could indicate digital domestic abuse. These include controlling access to online accounts, sending negative or threatening messages, demanding explicit images, posting intimate images without consent, and impersonating the victim on social media platforms. Such behaviors not only violate a person’s privacy but also have a significant impact on their mental and emotional well-being.

While the exact prevalence of digital domestic abuse is unclear, a survey conducted in the UK revealed that 29% of women had experienced attempts their partners to control their social media interactions. Additionally, 11% reported that their partners had successfully controlled their online activities. Younger people, particularly those between the ages of 16 and 24, are more likely to be victims of this form of abuse. In contrast, individuals over the age of 55 are less likely to experience it, possibly due to their different patterns of technology usage.

If you find yourself a victim of digital domestic abuse, there are steps you can take to protect yourself. Setting strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and turning off location sharing are important measures to safeguard your online presence. It is also advisable to install a reputable mobile antivirus app to detect and remove any spyware or stalking apps that may have been installed on your device. Most importantly, if you ever feel threatened or endangered, seek immediate help contacting the police.

Digital domestic abuse is a serious issue that requires awareness and action. By understanding the signs and taking proactive measures to protect oneself, individuals can empower themselves and break free from the cycle of control and manipulation enabled technology.

Sources:
– (Source article) Panda Security – “Digital Domestic Abuse: When Technology Becomes a Weapon”
Link: https://www.pandasecurity.com/mediacenter/security/digital-domestic-abuse/
(Note: URLs removed as per instruction)