Abuse Using Technology

An abuser could commit a computer crime to gain access to your personal information and use that information to keep power and control over you. S/he may do this by breaking into your computer, phone, or other device, and copying or stealing your data, such as:

• your Social Security number or other private identifying information;
• employment information;
• calendar details.; or
• photos or videos, especially ones of a sexual nature.

Depending on what the abuser steals or learns, s/he may use that information to:

• stalk you by showing up at the places marked in your calendar;
• publish your photos, videos, or personal information to harm, embarrass, or endanger you;
•  blackmail you by threatening to share your private information; or
• otherwise harass or intimidate you.

If the abuser steals nude or sexual images or videos, s/he may threaten to post or share these videos as a way to gain control over you. You can learn more about this on our Abuse Involving Nude/Sexual Images page.