What is Digital Abuse?

Digital abuse should be taken as seriously as any other type of abuse.

𝒷𝓎 Kelly Graham, MSW, RSW

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​When you hear the word abuse, what probably comes to mind is physical, sexual, verbal, or any other types of abuse that are more talked about. However, with the growing use of technology, there is a new form of abuse that is becoming more common. This is called digital abuse. Digital abuse is simply any type of abuse using technology. This can occur through phone calls, texts, emails, social media, etc. It can range from harassment through using technology, to using it to invade your privacy or stalk you, or even to post private pictures without your consent. This is a growing concern, especially among teenagers and young adults who spend much of their time using technology.
 
What does digital abuse look like?

• Unwanted, constant calling or texting
• Harassment on social media, through texts or calls, email, etc.
• Demanding that you send photographic proof of where you are or who you are with
• Stealing or forcing you to give them your passwords to your social media, email, phone, etc.
• Using technology to stalk you, keep track of your location, or know who you are with
• Demanding you immediately reply to calls, emails, texts, etc.
• Controlling who you are friends with on social media
• Pressuring you to send nude or private pictures
• Sending unwanted explicit messages or pictures
• Monitoring your activity and going through your phone, social media, etc.
• Revenge porn (posting a current or an ex-partner’s private pictures without their consent as a form of revenge)

 
Unlike other forms of abuse, digital abuse is equally perpetrated by both men and women. Digital abuse has many of the same behaviours as other types of abuse. The main reason for it is power and control over the other person. If somebody is being coercive, controlling, degrading, or trying to embarrass you, then it qualifies as digital abuse. People may not realize what they are doing is abuse, or that they are being abused, because the abuse is not physical. Even though we are more aware of the other types of abuse that exist now, people still often think of only physical abuse when it comes to determining if they have been, or are being, abused. This is because the other types are harder to see and the effects are also not as visible. However, all types of abuse, including digital, are just as harmful and can leave lasting negative effects. 
 
Digital abuse can fluctuate in severity. If you are experiencing digital abuse, there are a variety of measures you can take. However, if you feel like you are in danger, contact the police.

• Ask them to stop (Sometimes people may not realize what they are doing is abusive)
• Block the person on social media
• Block their number in your phone
• Be mindful of what you post on social media and who can see it (your location, plans, etc.)
• Put on or change the lock on your phone
• Change the passwords to your social media and email accounts
• If relevant, talk to your school or your workplace and give them information about what is occurring and by whom
• Contact the police and inform them about what you have been experiencing (if possible, try and take screenshots or pictures for proof)

 
Digital abuse should be taken as seriously as any other type of abuse. It is important to ensure your safety, and let somebody know if this is happening to you. Often the effects of abuse can leave emotional and psychological wounds. If this is the case, don’t be afraid to talk to somebody about what you are going through. Reach out and get help from family, friends, or a counsellor. You have the right not to be abused in any way. If you or anyone you know is experiencing any type of abuse, speak up and don’t be afraid to ask for help.