The Briefing
New Greens leader elected + Hidden dangers of tracking apps
May 15, 2025
In this engaging discussion, guest Julie Inman Grant, Australia's eSafety Commissioner, sheds light on the often-overlooked dangers of tracking apps and social media. She reveals how these technologies can lead to coercive control and cyberstalking, particularly among youth in relationships. Julie emphasizes the critical need for open communication between parents and children about these issues. She advocates for holding tech companies accountable and underscores the importance of identifying warning signs of abuse, ensuring that technology fosters safety rather than control.
13:04
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Quick takeaways
- The election of a new Greens leader signifies a significant shift in political dynamics, potentially influencing future policy directions.
- Research reveals alarming trends in tracking app usage, highlighting the need for clear boundaries between safety and coercive control in relationships.
Deep dives
The Rise of Coercive Control Through Technology
Social media and tracking apps have become tools that can facilitate coercive control in intimate relationships. Alarmingly, research shows that one in five young people believe tracking a partner’s location without their consent is acceptable, while one in three feel it's reasonable to demand immediate updates on their partner's whereabouts. This suggests a normalization of invasive behaviors under the guise of concern within romantic contexts. The implications of this behavior are serious, as such practices can lead to emotional manipulation and even domestic violence.
