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 surge in the use of smart home security systems, baby monitors, cameras, and smart speakers for abusive purposes. This form of abuse allows perpetrators to extend their reach and inflict harm without being physically present.
The committee has called on the government to address this issue, which has been dubbed “tech abuse.” Chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage described the rise in this type of domestic abuse as “truly chilling.” According to data from domestic abuse charity Refuge, 59% of the women and children it supported in 2020-2021 experienced abuse involving technology.
The committee believes that the UK’s law enforcement and criminal justice system are ill-equipped to deal with tech abuse, which is likely to become even more prevalent in the future. They have made recommendations to address this issue, including providing specialized training for workers in relevant sectors and increasing awareness of support services for victims and survivors.
In addition, the committee has called for improvements in official crime data on tech abuse to support specialists, academics, and policymakers in developing a comprehensive response. They have suggested the formation of a “tech abuse working group” by the Office for Product Safety and Standards to bring together researchers, support services, and public services. However, they emphasize that this group should go beyond mere discussion and eventually produce guidance and a code of practice.
MPs have also expressed concerns about the use of connected technology in schools and by children in their homes. They are worried about the harvesting and third-party use of children’s data and their lack of control over the technology used. The committee criticized the government and Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for dismissing their concerns about this issue and urged the ICO to engage more actively with manufacturers of connected toys and education technology.
Chairwoman Dame Caroline Dinenage highlighted the need to balance the benefits of technology with the risks it poses to privacy and personal safety online. She called on the government to work with manufacturers to tackle technology-facilitated abuse, which is expected to worsen in the future.
A government spokesperson emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling domestic abuse and highlighted the measures already in place, including the Tackling Domestic Abuse Plan and significant funding. 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 report serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address tech abuse and protect victims from this insidious form of domestic violence.