Technology-enabled domestic abuse is on the rise to unprecedented levels, with cases like Jasminder’s shedding light on the harrowing reality faced by many victims. Jasminder, whose name has been changed to protect her identity, narrated her traumatic experience of being controlled by her ex-partner in every possible way. From restricting her access to finances and monitoring her every move to sending intimidating messages, Jasminder’s story is a sobering example of the growing trend of tech-linked domestic abuse.
Jasminder’s ex-husband not only controlled their joint bank account and finances but also manipulated her into believing she had a poor credit score, preventing her from getting a phone contract in her own name. For years, she endured emotional and psychological abuse without any outward physical signs of harm. “I have no bruises to show, but he destroyed me in every sense,” Jasminder bravely shared.
This alarming spike in technology-linked domestic abuse has caught the attention of campaigners who are concerned about the lack of preparedness of law enforcement agencies to address the issue effectively. Refuge’s data revealed that between August 2022 and July 2023, over 48,000 cases of violent domestic abuse involving an online element were reported against women and girls. Of the nearly 5,000 women supported by Refuge, a significant portion had experienced tech-enabled abuse, indicating the pervasive nature of this form of control and coercion.
Refuge’s efforts to combat tech-facilitated abuse have been commendable, with a specialist team seeing a 207% increase in referrals since its inception. The stories shared by survivors like Jasminder underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive approach involving criminal justice agencies, government bodies, charities, and the tech industry to tackle this growing menace. Deputy Chief Constable Maggie Blyth emphasised the importance of a whole-system response to address violence against women and girls, urging increased training for officers to handle cases involving technology-mediated abuse.
As the prevalence of technology-enabled domestic abuse continues to escalate, it is imperative to raise awareness, provide support to survivors, and advocate for stronger measures to hold perpetrators accountable. Jasminder’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the silent suffering endured by many, prompting a call to action to create safer, more secure spaces for those affected by domestic abuse.