By Ben Kerrigan-
MPs have called on government to tackle surge in tech-enabled domestic abuse
The Government must make tackling so-called ‘tech abuse’ a priority, MPs have said, as they warned smart technology and connected devices were increasingly being used to harass, coerce and control victims of domestic abuse.
The Culture, Media and Sport Committee said the police and criminal justice system must be better equipped to deal with the problem, with most domestic abuse cases now featuring some sort of cyber element.
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The committee warned it is “only going to get worse in the future”.
An inquiry was launched in May last year to consider both the potential benefit and harms of connected technology, such as smart speakers, virtual assistants and wearable fitness trackers.
Government figures suggest that there are on average nine connected devices in every household in the UK, while by 2050 there will be 24 billion interconnected devices worldwide.
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The fact the proliferation of smart devices, from smartphones to home assistants and security systems, has provided abusers with tools to invade the privacy and autonomy of their victims is quite disturbing. This tech-enabled domestic abuse often takes various forms, including monitoring, stalking, and intimidation through remote access and control of devices. Perpetrators use these tactics to exert power and control over victims, often exacerbating the trauma and psychological distress experienced by those who are already vulnerable.
The fact that MPs are taking a stand against this burgeoning issue speaks volumes about its gravity. Their call for the UK government to address this surge in tech-enabled domestic abuse highlights the intersection of technology, human rights, and the need for comprehensive legal and regulatory measures. This action reflects a growing recognition that domestic abuse is not limited to physical violence, but can encompass a wide range of manipulative behaviors that exploit the technological tools at our disposal.
One of the most significant aspects of this call to action is the potential for systemic change. By raising awareness and advocating for legislative reforms, MPs are aiming to create a safer environment for victims of domestic abuse, especially those who may not even be aware that their smart devices are being used against them. These victims often find themselves isolated and trapped by the very technology that is supposed to enhance their lives.
Moreover, the significance of MPs addressing tech-enabled domestic abuse extends beyond national borders. As technology is a global phenomenon, this issue resonates with societies worldwide. By taking a proactive stance in combating this form of abuse, the UK government has the opportunity to set an example for other nations to follow, sparking a collective effort to address the challenges posed by the misuse of technology.
The involvement of MPs also emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration. Tackling tech-enabled domestic abuse requires the cooperation of lawmakers, technology companies, law enforcement agencies, and advocacy groups. This multifaceted approach is crucial for developing effective strategies that can prevent, mitigate, and respond to instances of abuse. It also serves as a reminder that technology, although a powerful tool, must be developed and utilized with ethical considerations in mind.
The call for action from MPs underlines the evolving nature of domestic abuse and the necessity to adapt to new forms of harm. This technological shift in abusive tactics is a wake-up call for society to reassess its understanding of safety, privacy, and consent in the digital age. The significance of this call lies in its potential to trigger a broader dialogue about the ethical use of technology and the responsibilities of both individuals and institutions in preventing its misuse.
Additionally, the initiative shines a light on the need for education and awareness campaigns. Many victims may not be aware of the extent to which their smart devices can be manipulated for abusive purposes. By raising awareness, MPs and the government can empower individuals to recognize the signs of tech-enabled abuse and seek help. Furthermore, such campaigns can encourage tech companies to design products with enhanced privacy and security features that empower users to safeguard their digital lives.
In conclusion, the call by MPs on the UK government to tackle the surge in tech-enabled domestic abuse is a significant and timely move. It showcases the power of collective action to address evolving challenges in the digital age. This initiative not only highlights the urgency of protecting vulnerable individuals from the harms of technology but also underscores the need for comprehensive legal, technological, and societal measures to prevent and respond to tech-enabled abuse. By taking a stand against this insidious form of violence, MPs are championing a safer and more et
The committee heard evidence that the vast majority of domestic abuse cases now feature some sort of cyber element, including the use of spyware, and perpetrators monitoring movements and collecting recordings and images of victims and survivors.
The report calls on the Government to improve the skills of law enforcement and the response of the criminal justice system, while boosting awareness of specialist services tackling violence against women and girls.
Manufacturers and distributors also need to be brought together to mitigate risks through product design, it added.
Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, said: “While the rising popularity of connected technology has brought undoubted benefits to everyday life, the flip side is the real risk some of these gadgets pose to privacy and personal safety online.
“In particular, the surge in use of devices such as smart home security systems, baby monitors, cameras and smart speakers to monitor, harass, coerce and control victims of domestic abuse is truly chilling.
“The Government must make it a priority to work with manufacturers to tackle this technology-facilitated abuse, which is only going to get worse in the future.
“The police and criminal justice system must be better equipped to deal with it, while victims should be properly supported.
The committee’s report, Connect tech: smart or sinister, also calls for more to be done to protect the privacy and rights of children, with young people increasingly likely to interact with connected technology at home and in schools.
In response to privacy concerns raised by the use of connected tech, the committee recommends that the Government empowers users, and in particular children, to exercise their rights over their personal data through intuitive product design, clear terms and conditions and digital literacy schemes.
“Connected devices also harvest a large amount of personal data and there are particular concerns where children are involved,” said Dame Caroline.
“The Government and Information Commissioner’s Office should make sure products used in schools and by young people at home have privacy settings that are intuitive for children and age-appropriate terms and conditions.”
The report says the Office for Product Safety and Standards should convene a working group’ to bring the industry together to tackle tech abuse.
The Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, Nicole Jacobs, said: “Perpetrators of domestic abuse will manipulate new technology such as smart home devices to further control, coerce, and abuse.
“Too often, victims and survivors are expected to keep themselves safe from tech abuse, rather than tech companies taking steps to prevent harm.
“While the Government has made good progress on some forms of tech abuse through the Online Safety Bill, they must ensure tech companies address all the tools that perpetrators use, including smart home devices.
“I also want to see more police training on how perpetrators use these new forms of technology, and investment in specialist domestic abuse services that are focused on supporting victims of tech abuse.”
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