(Posted 2026 March)
Technology-facilitated abuse is a form of abuse where someone uses digital tools—think: phones, apps, social media, or smart devices—to control, harass, monitor, or harm another person. It often shows up in relationships where there is already a pattern of power and control, but it can also happen in other contexts (such as stalking or harassment).
This can look like:
- Secretly recording intimate or explicit content during video chats.
- Using smart devices in the home that have monitoring features.
- Threatening to send your intimate images to others without your consent.
- Posting insulting or humiliating content or rumors about you online.
- Creating “deepfake” pornographic images using your face or real images without your consent.
- Tracking your location through apps, GPS, or shared accounts without consent.
- Changing the code to the digital lock on the front door without your knowledge.
- Logging into your social media, email, or banking accounts to monitor or manipulate you.
- Texting, calling, emailing, or sending DMs repeatedly to intimidate or overwhelm you.
- Pretending to be you online to damage your reputation or relationships.
Technology-facilitated abuse might feel constant and inescapable because it can follow you everywhere—through your phone, home devices, or online presence. It can impact emotional well-being, privacy, financial security, and even physical safety.
When someone uses technology to control, scare, or watch you, or to take away your independence, that’s technology-facilitated abuse. If this is happening to you, reach out to advocates in the Advocacy Services program of Domestic and Sexual Violence Services for help.
Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services division supports adults, teens, and children who have been impacted by domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Services are confidential, free, and provided regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
If you or someone you know is experiencing interpersonal violence, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 703-360-7273 for resources and support. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
This posting is part of the Department of Family Services' Community Corner where you’ll find timely information about upcoming events, parenting and wellness tips, programs and services, and more! Share these helpful posts with your friends and family. Don't miss out on future postings! Sign up today!