This podcast explores the normalization of tracking and surveillance in romantic relationships, featuring the story of a woman who was stalked by her ex-boyfriend. It discusses the reasons why young people are willing to track and be tracked, and the potential invasion of privacy and dangers associated with these technologies. The trend of spying on partners, especially among Gen Z, is also discussed, along with privacy protections and policies by Apple and Google.
Stalkerware enables abusers to invade their partners' privacy, access personal data, and control their movements and conversations.
The normalization of digital monitoring among Gen Z raises concerns about the future of relationships and calls for greater regulation to protect individuals from the dangers of digital intrusion.
Deep dives
The Impact of Intrusive Technology in Abusive Relationships
This podcast episode explores the story of Lisa, a survivor of an abusive relationship, and how her ex-partner used intrusive technology to stalk and control her. Lisa's ex-boyfriend had installed Stalkerware on her phone without her knowledge, enabling him to track her movements and access her personal information. This episode highlights the alarming rise of stalking and digital monitoring in relationships, especially among the younger generation. The normalization of such behavior and the lack of awareness regarding digital privacy contribute to the perpetuation of this problem. Domestic abuse charities emphasize the need to address these issues and raise awareness about the dangers of these technologies.
The Extent of Intrusion and Manipulation Enabled by Stalkerware
Stalkerware provides abusers with various tools to invade their partners' privacy. These apps give access to messages, call logs, and even the ability to activate the microphone to listen in on conversations. The app installed on the victim's phone can remain undetected while collecting and transmitting personal data. This kind of stalking goes beyond physical boundaries, as it enables abusers to control and manipulate their partners. This episode highlights how the ease of access and affordability of technology has amplified the problem, making it cheaper and easier for abusers to monitor and harass their victims.
The Need to Address Privacy Education and Boundaries
The normalization of intrusive technology and digital monitoring among young people raises concerns about the future of relationships. Teaching children and young adults to value their digital privacy is crucial to preventing the perpetuation of toxic behaviors in romantic relationships. The podcast emphasizes the importance of having conversations about consent, boundaries, and the ethical usage of technology. Additionally, it calls for greater regulation and restrictions on apps that enable stalking and harassment to protect individuals from the dangers of digital intrusion.
We hear the story of one woman who was stalked by her ex-boyfriend, as domestic abuse charities warn that young people are becoming accustomed to a high level of monitoring in romantic relationships. And one of our producers finds out first hand what it's like to be tracked.
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If you’ve been affected by issues in this podcast, you can find a list of organisations that offer support here.
Refuge also runs the National Domestic Abuse Helpline for women experiencing domestic abuse, their family, friends and others calling on their behalf. You can call them on their free 24-hour helpline: 0808 2000 247
Guest: Constance Kampfner, News Reporter, The Times.