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Tech-based domestic and family violence

In a world where our lives are increasingly being lived online, the need to stay safe from tech-based abuse has never been more important. 

Digital technology brings great benefits to our everyday lives. But the devices, apps and platforms come with risks, especially for women experiencing domestic and family violence. This page provides tips and advice about staying safe online. 

About technology-facilitated abuse

Women dealing with domestic, family and sexual violence

Studies show that the majority of women dealing with domestic, family and sexual violence experience part of the violence online or through digital technology. 

This often includes tech-based coercive control, as well as cyberstalking and image-based abuse.

The abuser is usually the person’s partner, ex-partner, a family member, or someone the woman is sharing a home with or dating.

If a woman who experiences domestic and family violence has a child or children in her care, often she is also worried about their safety. Research shows that 27% of domestic violence cases involve tech-based abuse of children.

Find out more about tech-based domestic violence and sexual violence.

5 tips to reduce the risk of tech-based abuse

You know your situation best, so be careful about how you use technology to access the advice and resources on this page and others on the eSafety website. Always seek help in a way that prioritises your safety, or that of the person you are helping.

These tips can help you to deal with tech-based abuse if you think digital devices, apps or platforms are being used against you, or someone you know.


  1. Know what to look out for
    Check for these common warning signs to get a better understanding of how digital technology can be used to abuse, humiliate and control you online.


  2. Create an online safety plan
    Creating an online safety plan helps people to stay connected while preventing abusers from locating them through social media, online accounts and devices. This resource includes a checklist, advice and a list of steps to keep you safe online.


  3. Know how to collect evidence safely
    eSafety offers step-by-step guidance on collecting evidence if digital technology is being used in an abusive or threatening way. Although it is important to collect evidence, it is even more important to stay safe. Make sure evidence is only collected when it is safe to do so. 


  4. Actively update account security
    It’s simple and effective to use different, strong passwords for each account and sign out when finished. Two-step verification (also known as two-factor authentication) can be added for extra protection. Your security questions should be changed to things no one else will know the answer to. Watch our 'how to' videos to find out more about securing your online accounts.   


  5. Be careful about sharing your location
    Check the privacy settings on all your devices and apps, including social media. If it's safe to do so, disable their location services.  Bluetooth technology used for sharing files and connecting devices like headphones can also track your location, so you may need to turn that off in your device settings. When searching online, use private or ‘incognito’ browsing mode, especially if you are looking for help.

Find out more about using your device and account safely in digital wellbeing. 

Staying safer online

Staying safer online

See What You Made Me Do

See What You Made Me Do is a documentary series that explores domestic and family violence. As the title highlights, domestic and family violence is often considered the fault of the women and children who are abused. But it is not.

The series from Australia's Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) is based on an award-winning book by investigative journalist Jess Hill. It shows the way digital technology is frequently used as a tactic to control and coerce people in abusive relationships. 

eSafety has collaborated with SBS to provide practical information about technology-facilitated abuse and how to stay safer online.

More resources

Educational resources for schools

Connect with Respect has been developed by eSafety and SBS in response to some of the issues raised in See What You Made Me Do.

This teacher resource focuses on five short videos. The videos and associated classroom activities provide opportunities for important conversations with your students about being respectful, supportive friends and navigating their social lives safely. 

 

Get help

1800RESPECT

Confidential counselling, support and information for people affected by sexual abuse or domestic and family violence. Available 24/7.

Police

If you, or someone you care about, is at risk of harm right now call Triple Zero (000).

More options

Warning

Remember, your safety is the most important thing. If an abusive person finds out that you are looking for resources and information, their abusive behaviour may get worse. Talk to a counselling service if you need more support.

 

 

Last updated: 03/12/2024