Stalkerware technology is enabling perpetrators of domestic abuse to utilise new and more discreet ways to stalk their victims. This week is National Stalking Awareness Week and we’re looking at the ways in which someone might stalk victims.
Spyware created to stalk someone, particularly in cases of intimate partner relationships, is referred to as ‘Stalkerware’.
A perpetrator only needs a small window of time and access to your mobile device, table or PC. Then, stalkerware can be uploaded to your phone and linked to theirs. Some stalkerware can even get access to your camera, microphone, texts, contact list, gallery etc.
Stalkerware can exist on your phone without you knowing, giving a perpetrator access to a device that most of us use daily. However, there are signs that can indicate there is stalkerware on your device. You can also carry out simple checks to uncover this. Always remember that removing stalkerware from your device is highly likely to notify the person who put it there. And therefore, this should be done with your safety in mind.
Devices such as phones, CCTVs, Alexa’s can also be accessed via a Wi-Fi link. So, it’s best to maintain your Wi-Fi security as well as your devices. Using strong passwords that nobody else knows are paramount to this.
Another type of technology are trackers which can be used to keep tabs on a person’s location. These don’t need to be imbedded in software. They are small and discreet enough that someone is unlikely to notice them. These tend to run on battery power and so would need to be swapped/charged. They are very similar to the ‘bugs’ you often see in spy movies.
It’s always best practice to change any passwords if you believe anyone else knows them
Please contact PARAGON paragonhants@theyoutrust.org.uk if you have any queries or concerns about potential stalking with technology. We can go through checks and offer advice and support for this.
