The Rising Threat of Technology-Facilitated Abuse

Recent data from the domestic abuse charity Refuge indicates a significant rise in technology-facilitated abuse, particularly involving wearable devices such as smartwatches and rings. In 2025, referrals to Refuge's technology abuse team surged by 62%, reaching 829 cases, up from 512 in 2024. This increase is attributed to the growing accessibility of wearable technology, which allows abusers to stalk, surveil, and control their victims remotely. Emma Pickering, head of the tech abuse team at Refuge, emphasized that the integration of technology into daily life has made it easier for perpetrators to exploit these tools for manipulation.

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

The reports received by Refuge primarily involve wearable health technology, but abusers are also utilizing smart locks, heating systems, and fertility trackers to exert control. Pickering noted that the evolution of technology has enabled abusers to operate from a distance, stating, “Years ago, a perpetrator needed to physically be in the house... Now you don’t even need to be in the same country.” This shift has raised concerns about the safety of women and children, with technology companies urged to prioritize user safety in their product designs.

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

Survivors of technology-facilitated abuse have shared harrowing accounts of their experiences. One survivor, Mina, recounted feeling "deeply shocked" upon realizing her smartwatch was being used to track her location without consent. She described the constant paranoia that ensued, stating, “It created a constant sense of paranoia; I couldn’t relax, sleep properly, or feel settled anywhere because I knew my movements weren’t private.” Such testimonies highlight the profound psychological impact of being monitored through technology.

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

The rise in technology-facilitated abuse has prompted calls for a coordinated response from technology companies, governments, and advocacy groups. A government spokesperson affirmed that addressing violence against women and girls, including online abuse, is a top priority, with strategies being developed to tackle these issues comprehensively. However, critics argue that technology firms often prioritize innovation over safety, failing to consider how their products can be misused.

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

While Refuge's data indicates a clear rise in technology-facilitated abuse, there is a lack of comprehensive statistics on the broader implications of this issue, including the effectiveness of current protective measures. Additionally, the extent to which technology companies are implementing safety features remains unclear.

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

• “Wearable technology is cheaper to purchase than ever before,” — Emma Pickering, Head of Tech Abuse Team, Refuge

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

• “I felt suddenly exposed and unsafe, knowing that my location was being tracked without my consent,” — Mina, Survivor

Abuse involving smartwatches and rings rising at ‘alarming’ rate, charity warns

The increasing prevalence of technology-facilitated abuse underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and awareness to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

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