Women’s group warns men using tech to control partners

CONTROLLING men are using technology to monitor their partners and make it even harder for them to escape, campaigners have warned.

They revealed that victims have been put under overwhelming surveillance by controlling men who use modern tech to watch their every move.

Smart apps like location-sharing technology, home security cameras and doorbells, baby monitors, smart speakers, hidden cameras, and tracking devices have been used, according to the female victims.

They told Donegal women’s support group The Uplift Project that their private data has been accessed by husbands and partners who insist on knowing passwords.

The Uplift Project’s clinical director Jessica Gallagher told the Donegal News: “For many women affected by domestic abuse and coercive control, technology can become another way of being watched.

“In a rural county like Donegal, where distance and isolation already create real barriers to safety, the fear of being monitored can feel overwhelming.”

To help protect women against digital surveillance, the Uplift Project has partnered with Donegal online solutions company SME Web Design that improves the digital footprint of businesses across the county.

Kelley Monks, Kate Jackson, Mimi Campbell and Gracey Cheney of SME Web Design smewebdesigner.com with Jessica Gallagher, who is clinical director at Donegal women’s support group The Uplift Project.

SME Web Design founder Kelley Monks will help the Uplift Project “turn technology towards safety”.

Jessica said: “Over the coming months, we will develop our website further, adding clear, accessible information videos on the main site and within a private members’ area.

“Alongside public information videos, The Uplift Project will also offer online courses in cyber security, privacy and practical digital skills.

“Women will be able to access training on everyday technology, including how to review connected devices on Wi-Fi routers, check smart-home app permissions, identify common risk points and improve privacy settings where appropriate.

“The aim is simple: to support women to feel safer, more informed and more in control, without pressure, judgement or the need to disclose more than they choose.”

She added: “Technology can be used to increase fear and control. This can leave women feeling that the abuser is present even when they are not physically there.

“These experiences are part of coercive control. They affect privacy, confidence and the basic sense of being safe at home.

The Uplift Project exists to support women and families to rebuild safety, confidence and connection after adversity, with choice and dignity at the centre of its work. Its safeguarding approach also recognises the importance of privacy, appropriate responses to harm, and safe, respectful spaces for all participants.”

Victims can call their local Garda station to speak in private and can call 999 or 112 in an emergency.

Donegal Uplift Project can be contacted via its theupliftproject.ie website and Donegal Domestic Violence Services can be reached through its donegaldomesticviolenceservices.ie site.