Domestic Abusers Exploiting Technology to Harass Victims, Warns Committee
MPs have raised concerns about the increasing use of technology by domestic abusers to monitor and control their victims. The Culture, Media and Sport Committee has highlighted the use of smart home security systems, baby monitors, cameras, and smart speakers as tools for abuse. These devices allow perpetrators to extend their reach and inflict harm without being physically present. The committee has called on the government to address this issue, which they have dubbed “tech abuse.”
Chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage described the rise in this form of domestic abuse as “truly chilling.” The committee cited data from domestic abuse charity Refuge, which revealed that 59% of the women and children they supported in 2020-2021 had experienced technology-related abuse.
The committee believes that the UK’s law enforcement and criminal justice system are ill-equipped to handle tech abuse, which is expected to become even more prevalent in the future. They have made recommendations to address this issue, including providing specialized training for professionals in relevant sectors and increasing awareness of support services for victims and survivors.
In addition to addressing domestic abuse, the committee also expressed concerns about the use of connected technology in schools and by children in their homes. They called on the government and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to engage with manufacturers of connected toys and education technology to ensure age-appropriate terms and conditions, intuitive privacy settings, and clear explanations of data processing risks.
Chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and manufacturers to tackle technology-facilitated abuse. While acknowledging the benefits of technology, she highlighted the risks it poses to privacy and personal safety online.
A Government spokesperson stated that tackling domestic abuse is a priority for the government, with significant funding allocated for prevention, victim support, and perpetrator pursuit. They also mentioned upcoming cybersecurity standards and the Online Safety Bill, which aims to make the UK the safest place to be online.
The committee’s recommendations include improving official crime data on tech abuse, establishing a tech abuse working group, and ensuring that monitoring in smart workplaces is done with the consent of employees.
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