Domestic abuse law fails to recognise danger of tech abuse, Lords committee told
Summary
A UK Lords committee heard that the Domestic Abuse Act does not fully address abuse involving technology, such as tracking devices and hidden software used to control victims. Experts say tech abuse is common in domestic violence cases and causes serious harm, but it is not clearly listed in the law’s definition of domestic abuse.Key Facts
- Tech abuse means using digital tools like phones, apps, and devices to harass, monitor, or control someone.
- Examples include hidden tracking devices (like AirTags), spyware on phones, and using smart home devices to cause distress.
- The 2021 Domestic Abuse Act covers many abuse types but does not explicitly mention tech abuse.
- Tech abuse often fits under coercive or controlling behavior but can be missed by services because it’s seen as an online safety issue.
- A report found 45% of people worldwide experienced tech abuse in the past year.
- Young people often see tracking in relationships as normal, increasing their risk of abuse.
- Studies found significant numbers of teenagers have been tracked by a partner’s phone or location.
- Experts call for the law to clearly include tech abuse to better protect victims and inform services.
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