Did you know that many abusers use stalking to intimidate and control their partners, and that 74% of those stalked by a former intimate partner reported abuse during the relationship?
Airtags and Stalking
Technology devices like Apple AirTags, Tiles or fitness trackers may be great gifts to help someone find their keys or encourage them to exercise, but these gadgets can also be used for stalking. Sports Illustrated model Brooks Nader went public with her concerns that she was stalked with an AirTag, and another woman shared her story of an AirTag being found in her car after she received the alert “AirTag Found Moving With You”.
GPS Technology
Since these types of devices use GPS technology, you could be sharing your location without knowing it. As one SHALVA therapist commented, “a few years ago, clients were surprised to learn that their partners could track them through their phones. Now we are vigilant about keeping up with new technology so that we can make clients aware of new apps and devices that can share location.”
What Can You Do?
So, what can you do? Check privacy and security settings on your phone and other devices. Be sure to change passwords and educate yourself on who has access to your various technologies. You can also learn more about how to stay safe with your technology on our website.
National Stalking Awareness Month
January is National Stalking Awareness Month. To support survivors of domestic abuse and stalking, SHALVA wants to make this information readily available. Share this with your network and help prevent stalking in this country.
