New research shows that a significant number of people believe technological tracking of partners is acceptable as technology-based coercive control techniques become more normalized.
The e-Safety Commissioner has announced a partnership with the Telco Together Foundation to raise awareness of technology-based coercive control, as a new survey by the Center for Social Research shows an alarming level of normalization of the use of tracking apps and other ways to keep tabs on partners. .
“There are many practical and secure reasons why two people in an intimate relationship may agree to share their passcodes, track each other, or send frequent messages to check where the other person is or what they are she does,” said Julie Inman Grant, commissioner of electronic security. photo) said today (November 25) in a statement.
“What is concerning about these findings is the normalization of these expectations within any intimate relationship.”
The Social Research Center survey asked 2,046 Australian adults about their attitudes towards a range of technology-based behaviors and found that a significant cohort of generally younger men, particularly from backgrounds non-English speakers, believe that some level of technology-based coercive control is acceptable.
Of those surveyed, 19.1 percent thought their partner should be constantly available to respond to digital communications, and 23.3 percent thought it was okay to want codes or passwords to unlock their devices. partner. Additionally, 13.6 percent said it was reasonable to want to track a partner’s whereabouts, while 28.7 percent felt it was normal to want to check out what their partner looks like on a photo before it is published online.
“In the age of ubiquitous technology, we must be careful not to inadvertently erode a partner’s privacy, boundaries, and agency simply because digital devices allow us to track, cross-check, and double-check their every action, their likes and dislikes,” Inman Grant said. .
“If you experience any of these behaviors or requests, especially with little or no respect for reciprocity or consent, be vigilant. They might suggest a partner’s desire to keep an eye on you to control you.
“As we celebrate another 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, let us remember that ending all forms of gender-based violence requires leadership across society: government, community, the technology industry and employers large and small.
“Australians are hungry for this leadership. Among the more than 80 percent who agreed that employers should distribute information and resources, nearly 40 percent strongly agreed.
“We are answering this call by partnering with the Telco Together Foundation to advocate and drive change by raising awareness of technology-based coercive control across Australia.”
To this end, Telstra, Optus, TPG Telecom, Vocus, Aussie Broadband, Superloop, Uniti Group, Tangerine Telecom, More Telecom and Indara will collaborate on a campaign to raise awareness of these challenges starting December 3. The “Love is” campaign will tackle signs of technology-based coercive control.
“With direct access to nearly every business and home in the country, our industry has an unparalleled ability to create meaningful, widespread change. This is both a tremendous responsibility and a tremendous opportunity,” said Renee Bowker, executive director of the Telco Together Foundation.
“The DFV Industry Pledge, signed by the CEOs of telecommunications companies, symbolizes a collective promise to act, dedicate resources and work together to generate long-term impact.
“This year, as part of 16 Days of Activism and building on DFV’s commitment, we are working to empower customers, businesses and employees to recognize and combat coercive control based on technology. Whether it’s being forced to share location data or dictating what can be shared online, these behaviors are deeply harmful and must be challenged.
