Abuse Through Technology

Many people understand that abuse can occur in lots of different forms such as physical, emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse but not many know that abuse can occur through technology as well. Abuse through technology has become very common among abusers and is often ignored because it occurs behind a screen and doesn’t leave cuts or bruises. There are different ways that someone can be abused through technology. One of those is emotional abuse through texting or phone calls.  In many cases the abuser is constantly calling their partner, often it will be up to 10, 20 or even 30 times in an hour, assuming they are being cheated on if their call is not answered. Threatening and blackmailing a partner with posting a private photo of them is also a way that an abuser can control a victim into doing whatever they want them to. Another way that someone can be abused through technology is by the invasion of privacy and crossing boundaries through hacking.  This means that the abuser gets access to their partner’s social media accounts without permission. Sexual abuse can also occur through technology when the victim feels as though they are being pressured into doing something they do not agree with. Most of the sexual abuse occurs when a webcam is involved such as during Skype or FaceTime.  

It is also important to keep in mind that anything that is posted on social media is never private, it can be seen by anyone at any time, including nude photos. Although there is the belief that once a photo is deleted, it no longer exists, it always has a way to appear again. It is also important to know that tracking/stalking someone has become easier with geolocation tagging on apps and sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.  Abuse through technology may not be as evident as the physical or sexual abuse, but it can cause serious harm. If you or someone you know is going through this or any type of abuse please seek help by calling our 24 hour confidential hotline at  559.233.HELP (4357).

- Kenia Revolorio, Youth Education Specialist