Technology is often celebrated for its ability to connect us, improve safety, and simplify daily life. Yet, in some cases, technology’s darker side emerges when it’s misused to monitor and control partners. At Lund Bennett Family Law, we have seen a concerning rise in cases where spyware and surveillance tools are being used in divorce proceedings and as a form of coercive control.
In this blog, we’ll examine how technology enables coercive control, signs that your partner may be spying on you, and how to protect yourself.
How Technology Facilitates Coercive Control
Coercive control is a form of emotional abuse where one partner uses manipulation, intimidation, and surveillance to dominate the other. Today’s affordable and increasingly sophisticated spyware gives abusers another tool to enforce control, often without their partner’s knowledge.
Spyware can:
- Access private information: Emails, text messages, and even phone calls.
- Track physical movements: GPS-enabled spyware reveals real-time locations.
- Record keystrokes: Giving access to passwords and other sensitive data.
Disturbingly, we’ve observed a significant increase in such cases. In 2023, 40% of divorce cases involved one spouse spying on the other—a sharp rise from 20% in 2022. Alarmingly, advanced tools, like iPhone chargers equipped with micro-transmitters, are now available for under £150, enabling covert spyware installation within minutes.
Signs Your Partner May Be Spying on You
Spyware can be difficult to detect, but there are subtle indicators that your devices might be compromised:
- Unusual battery drain: Spyware runs constantly in the background.
- Increased data usage: Monitoring and data transmission can cause spikes.
- Strange device behaviour: Unexplained reboots, slowdowns, or crashes.
- Unfamiliar apps: Unexpected software or app installations.
- Settings changes: Altered device settings you didn’t make.
- Heightened suspicion: Your partner seems unusually aware of your activities and asks intrusive questions.
If you notice these red flags, it’s essential to act quickly to protect yourself.
The Emotional and Legal Impact of Spyware
The use of spyware in relationships is not only a violation of privacy but also a serious form of coercive control. Victims often experience:
- Anxiety and paranoia.
- Loss of autonomy and helplessness.
Legally, unauthorised use of spyware can have serious consequences. It may influence divorce proceedings, particularly where coercive control or abuse is demonstrated.
How to Protect Yourself from Spyware
If you suspect you are being monitored, take these steps to safeguard yourself:
- Seek professional help: A cybersecurity expert can check for spyware on your devices.
- Update your devices: Keep software and operating systems up to date to patch vulnerabilities.
- Use secure communication: Use encrypted apps like Signal or secure email services.
- Reset your devices: Perform a factory reset to remove spyware (seek professional guidance first).
- Speak to a lawyer: Legal professionals can help you understand your rights and take action.
In Summary
The misuse of technology to spy on a partner is a disturbing form of coercive control that disregards privacy and autonomy. Recognising the signs of spyware and taking proactive steps is essential in protecting yourself.
If you are going through a divorce and suspect you are being monitored, it’s crucial to speak to a trusted family lawyer. At Lund Bennett Family Law, we are here to help you navigate these challenges, reclaim your privacy, and ensure that technology serves as a tool for empowerment—not oppression.
For expert advice, contact our team today.