About technology-facilitated abuse
Technology-facilitated abuse or 'tech-based abuse' refers to harmful actions carried out online or through digital technology. These include harassment, making threats, stalking and coercive or controlling behaviour.
The resources on this page can help you understand tech-based abuse that happens as part of domestic, family and sexual violence.
On this page:
What are the warning signs?
Experiencing tech-based domestic, family and sexual violence can be different for each person. However, there are some common signs and behaviours to look out for. These include:
- harassing or threatening behaviour online or via digital devices
- sharing, or threatening to share, intimate images or videos without consent (also known as ‘image-based abuse’ or ‘revenge porn’)
- cyberstalking such as tracking activities or movements online
- controlling online communication
- restricting or denying access to devices, online accounts or technology
- claiming to know details about private conversations
- monitoring online activity
- using technology to financially abuse someone
- accessing banking or social media accounts, or pressuring someone to share passwords
- turning up unexpectedly or knowing someone's location without explanation
- refusing to share control or account details of smart devices in your homes.
Why does it happen?
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Domestic and family violence
Technology can be used as a tool to harm people in close relationships, or after relationships end. It can be used by a partner, former partner, family member or person who is unrelated but living in the same place (for example, a housemate or in-home carer). It is common and can have significant impacts on those involved.
Learn about the signs and how to get help.
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Sexual violence
Technology can be used to carry out sexual violence, which is any sexual behaviour that occurs without consent. It can involve physical or non-physical acts and can include someone you know, such as a partner, friend or acquaintance, or a stranger you met online.
Learn about the signs and how to get help.
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Coercive control
Technology can be used to manipulate or control someone, undermining their confidence, independence and freedom. This type of coercive control can be hard to identify and report.
Learn about the signs and how to get help.
What support is available?
Support for people experiencing tech-based abuse: Anyone who thinks they may be experiencing tech-based domestic, family or sexual violence should consider making an online safety plan and should seek help. See our page with online safety planning information for people who may be experiencing tech-based abuse.
Support for frontline workers: Frontline workers supporting someone experiencing tech-based domestic, family or sexual violence can find more advice on our Support service resources page.
Supporting people who choose violence: Our pages about consent and online dating include information and advice about consent in intimate relationships, setting boundaries, and the benefits and risks of online dating. These resources may help people who choose violence to understand the impacts of their behaviour.
How to help someone dealing with tech-based abuse
Literature scan of tech-based domestic, family and sexual violence
Read our literature review to help understand the nature, prevalence and impacts of tech-based domestic, family and sexual violence. It also provides insight into how these issues are being addressed.
Get support
1800RESPECT
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, you can get support by calling or texting, or visiting the website for online chat and video call services.
Beyond Blue
All ages. All issues. Phone counselling and online chat available all day, every day.
Terms and Conditions
The TFA Support Service (the Service), and the information provided through it, are provided ‘as is’ (and as a guide only) and are not a substitute for professional advice (whether medical, clinical, legal, technical, or otherwise). You should not rely on the Service to make any decision and you are encouraged to seek professional advice if appropriate. For more information about how the Service can be used, and its limitations, please read the full Terms and Conditions.
Last updated: 18/03/2025
