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Types of technology-facilitated abuse

How is technology used by perpetrators?

Technology-facilitated abuse is not about technology, like all abuse it is about control, the technology is a tool used to perpetrate coercive and controlling behaviour. Technology has become ingrained in our everyday lives and has become something most people use without much consideration often making technology-facilitated abuse harder to spot.

Below we have listed out some definitions and explanations of different ways technology can be used by perpetrators.

What can it look like?

Indicators of technology-facilitated abuse

Abuse can be perpetrated using technology in a myriad of ways so indicators can be subtle, complicated, and easily dismissed. Be sure to meet survivors with a mental check-list of what to look for and see some of our own examples below.

  • Constant calls, texts, and online messages
    Is the survivor coerced into constantly communicating with the perpetrator? Persistent digital contact can be a sign they are being monitored.
  • Digital surveillance and tracking
    Does the perpetrator turn up everywhere the survivor is despite not being told where they were going? Is the survivor anxious about engaging with anyone online? Are their likes, shares, or social media friend lists being monitored?
  • Restricted access to accounts
    If a survivor cannot access their own accounts without permission or even have had their accounts set up with the perpetrator this may be an indicator. A perpetrator could use this to prevent them accessing finance, emails, or any extra support.
  • Fraudulent online finances
    Does the survivor use online banking the perpetrator can access? Is money going missing or being manipulated without their consent?
  • Smart home devices
    Though one or two smart home devices are becoming the norm it is how they are used that can be an indicator. Consider if the survivor has equal permissions to use the devices. Are they able to unlock a smart lock or turn off a ring doorbell without anxiety?
  • Lack of access to technology
    A survivor having no phone or laptop, or even very outdated models, whilst the rest of the family does could be a serious indicator that they are not managing their own online accounts.
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Support, information and next steps

Find the right support for you

Whatever you’re going through, you don’t have to face it alone. Explore practical information about psychological and emotional abuse, ways to get support, and how Equation can help — whether you’re worried about yourself or someone you care about.

  • Free, confidential support across Nottinghamshire.
  • Support for all genders and identities.
  • Specialist help, whenever you’re ready.

Is this happening to me?

If you feel controlled, confused, or scared in your relationship, that’s worth paying attention to. You know your relationship better than anyone else.

Supporting someone else

Noticing the signs in someone you care about can be worrying. Listen without judgement, believe them, and let them know support is available whenever they’re ready.

Referring someone into our service

Professionals, friends, or family members can refer someone into Equation’s support services too — with the person’s knowledge and consent wherever possible. Contact us to find out how.

Getting in touch with Equation

We’re here Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm excluding bank holidays (7.30pm on Wednesdays) – 24/7 confidential answerphone available outside these times. Men’s helpline: 0800 9956 999. LGBT+ helpline: 03300 880787. You can also self-refer online using the form below.

Help for survivors and professionals

Get in touch

Supporting survivors of technology-facilitated abuse can be complex. Our resources can help, but we’d always recommend getting advice before you:

  • remove stalkerware or other monitoring apps
  • change settings on a survivor’s devices or accounts
  • use a safe device to contact a survivor

Acting too quickly can alert the person causing harm and put the survivor at greater risk.

Equation and Juno Women’s Aid can give you advice, or you can refer the survivor to either service directly.

We’re here Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 4.30pm excluding bank holidays (7.30pm on Wednesdays) – 24/7 confidential answerphone available outside these times.

Support for women and children

Contact Juno Womens Aid
24-hour helpline: 0808 800 0340

Get in touch with our services

We aim to contact you within 1-2 business days.