Technology – opportunity or oppression in domestic violence

Technology – opportunity or oppression in domestic violence

This year the Women’s Refuge annual appeal highlights the increasing role technology is playing in fueling domestic violence.

“Domestic violence isn’t always about physical violence,” says Chief Executive Dr Ang Jury. “Everyday technology, such as mobile devices and social media platforms are increasingly being used as tools to monitor manipulate shame and control women easily and at a distance.”

Refuge advocates come across daily examples of how text messaging and other use of technology is being used in what is becoming known as ‘cyber abuse’. Technology is available to track a woman’s movements and monitor her phone and computer use. Identity theft is another issue women face in violent relationships, especially as they attempt to leave.

Women’s Refuge is supporting women who use their services to learn about how to deal with some of the risks technology can have on their safety.

Bold posters that display women holding cell phones with messages like “one of the most common tools for abuse is in your pocket,” or, “abuse – now available for download,” are being shown in bus shelters and magazine advertisements this month.

However Dr Jury says women should not be dissuaded from asking for help. “There are ways to mask your on-line activity and you can also use a library PC or a friend’s cell or iPad to seek information about personal safety or call our 0800 REFUGE line 24/7.

To donate to Women’s Refuge visit www.womensrefuge.org.nz

ENDS

© Scoop Media