The big question is: who is responsible? How can tech companies and social media platforms continue to allow such devastating abuse to unfold on their platforms every second of every day? How, in 2025, is it still acceptable for perpetrators to hide behind the so-called “safety” of a screen? And perhaps most concerningly, is our society breeding a generation where tech abuse is normalised?

The reality is that tech-facilitated abuse will not stop until tech companies listen to survivors and implement safety measures by design. Tackling this issue also requires urgent government action, including investment in lifesaving support services for survivors.

But we must remember: tech-facilitated abuse is not just a digital threat – it is a human issue. In conversations about tech abuse, perpetrators often become invisible, shielded behind screens and devices that offer a convenient scapegoat. The impact of technology lies in its use. Although it can be manipulated by perpetrators to inflict harm, it also holds immense potential to protect and empower women and girls.

In September, I supported Refuge’s Tech Safety Summit, which explored not only the biggest issues facing survivors of tech-facilitated abuse, but also the most innovative ways technology is being used to keep women and girls safe. This includes a new platform called Survivor AI, a feminist AI letter generator that supports survivors in getting abusive content removed from the internet.

Another example discussed in my documentary was Operation Atlas, created by the Metropolitan Police. It’s a digital processing tool used by police to speed up stalking and harassment investigations by analysing call records and messages in a matter of seconds. It means that there are now specific, trained officers dedicated to gathering this digital evidence.

Through my work with Refuge, I’ve seen first-hand how their tech team supports women to use technology safely. Beyond the screen, I’ve also recently learned about how technology is being used to protect women and their children living in Refuge’s safe accommodation.

To meet the needs of the diverse survivors it supports, Refuge launched its dispersed accommodation model in 2023 – an alternative to communal refuges that includes standalone properties ranging from flats and bungalows to three-bedroom houses.

Not only is dispersed accommodation more accessible for many survivors, including those with disabilities or large families, but these properties are equipped with the latest technology to keep survivors safe. Discreet CCTV and video doorbells provide peace of mind and real security for survivors who have recently fled domestic abuse. I can’t help but think how beneficial this would be for survivors I’ve spoken to who have experienced, or are experiencing, stalking and harassment.

To provide safe havens for more survivors than ever before, Refuge will soon be expanding its dispersed accommodation – made possible by its new partnership with Omaze. These properties will be owned by Refuge, improving the sustainability of its housing model, and will be equipped with built-in safety technology to ensure that survivors can finally begin healing.

Although I’ve witnessed and experienced the devastating effects of tech-facilitated abuse, I remain hopeful. When used for good, technology has the power to help create a future where women and girls can live free from fear. It’s time we, as women, reclaim technology – not by retreating from the digital world, but by having meaningful conversations about tech-facilitated abuse and pushing for safer, more equitable digital spaces.

To learn more about tech-facilitated abuse, visit www.refugetechsafety.org.

Find out more about Refuge’s campaign with Omaze: www.Omaze.co.uk/pages/refuge.

Refuge’s 24-hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline is available on 0808 2000 247, and its confidential live chat is accessible online at www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk.