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Financial abuse is a devastating form of domestic violence, often unseen but incredibly impactful. While traditional financial control tactics like hiding assets or demanding access to bank accounts remain prevalent, a disturbing new trend is emerging: tech-enabled financial abuse. Abusers are increasingly leveraging technology – from spyware and online banking access to digital tracking tools – to exert control and manipulate their victims. This insidious form of abuse can leave victims feeling isolated, trapped, and financially ruined.

The Rise of Tech-Enabled Financial Abuse

The digital age has provided abusers with a new arsenal of tools. Here's a breakdown of some common tactics:

• Spyware and Stalkerware: These apps, often secretly installed on a victim's phone, can track location, monitor calls and texts, record conversations, and even access photos and emails. This allows abusers to know exactly where a victim is, who they're communicating with, and what they're doing.
• Online Banking Access: Abusers may pressure victims into sharing online banking login details or even install keyloggers to steal credentials. This grants them direct access to the victim's finances.
• Digital Tracking and Monitoring: Beyond spyware, abusers might use GPS tracking apps, monitor social media activity, or even track online purchases to control spending and behavior.
• Digital Isolation: Abusers might control access to the internet, manage devices, or monitor online communications to isolate victims from support networks and limit their ability to seek help.

The Psychological Impact

The psychological impact of tech-enabled financial abuse is profound. Victims often experience:

• Fear and Anxiety: Constant surveillance creates a climate of fear and anxiety.
• Loss of Control: The feeling of being constantly monitored strips away a victim's sense of autonomy and control.
• Shame and Guilt: Abusers often manipulate victims into believing they are responsible for the financial situation.
• Isolation: Digital isolation makes it difficult to reach out for help and support.

Protecting Yourself: What You Can Do

If you suspect you are a victim of tech-enabled financial abuse, here are some steps you can take:

• Secure Your Devices: Change passwords on all accounts (banking, email, social media). Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.
• Scan for Spyware: Use a reputable anti-spyware app to scan your phone and computer.
• Review App Permissions: Regularly review the permissions granted to apps on your devices.
• Seek Professional Help: Contact a domestic violence hotline or therapist for support and guidance.
• Document Everything: Keep records of abusive behavior, including text messages, emails, and financial transactions.
• Create a Safety Plan: Develop a plan for safely leaving the abusive relationship, including securing finances and finding a safe place to stay.

Resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing financial abuse, please reach out for help. Here are some resources:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) - https://www.thehotline.org/
• Financial Abuse Support: https://www.financialabuse.org/

Don't suffer in silence. Help is available.