Tech abuse: what it is and how to stay safe

Gender-based violence isn't limited to physical violence. It includes other forms of equally harmful acts such as technology facilitated abuse.

Published: 22/11/2024

Technology can make life easier, but it can also be used as a tool for harm. Tech abuse happens when someone uses technology to hurt, monitor, or control another person.

This might look like:

Watching who you call or message by hacking your phone
Using hidden cameras or tracking devices to follow where you go
Pretending to be someone else on social media.

If this sounds familiar, please know there is help. In an emergency, always call 999.

How to protect yourself

Delete your browsing history

Web browsers save a list of websites you visit. You can clear this list so others can’t see it. You can also use private browsing to stop the browser from saving your history.

Change your social media privacy settings

Facebook: keep your friends list private and check what others post on your profile.

Instagram: set your account to private and only accept people you know.

X (Previously Twitter): make your tweets private so only approved followers can see them.

LinkedIn: hide personal details from people who aren’t connected to you.

Turn off location sharing

Location sharing lets people know where you are. Turn it off when you don’t need it. You can also:

Only let trusted apps use your location, like maps.

Stop sharing your location on apps like Google Maps or Apple’s “Find My.”

Check app settings often to see which ones can track your location.

Check the apps on your phone

Sometimes apps can hide on your phone or tablet. Look through your app settings to find and remove any you don’t recognise or need.

You’re not alone.

If you think you’re experiencing tech abuse, support is here for you. You can talk to:

Refuge: a 24-hour helpline for women
Men’s Advice Line: for men needing support
Galop: support for LGBTQ+ people
Hourglass: help for older people
Asian Women’s Resource Centre: for Black and minority ethnic women.

You can also call us on 0300 123 3456 or use our Support Finder to find support.