Understanding Technology-Facilitated Economic Abuse

Technology-facilitated economic abuse is a form of financial abuse where digital tools and platforms are used to control, exploit, or sabotage a person’s financial resources. Abusers leverage technology to monitor, restrict, or manipulate financial transactions, personal accounts, and assets, often making it difficult for victim-survivors to achieve financial independence. This type of abuse can occur through various online methods, such as:

  • Monitoring online banking or accessing financial accounts without permission.
  • Stealing personal information or manipulating online transactions to control finances.
  • Using social media, apps, or digital platforms to harass, intimidate, or coerce victim-survivors.

Despite its growing prevalence, there is limited awareness and resources on how to effectively prevent and combat technology-facilitated economic abuse. Our organization is committed to providing guidance, support, and practical solutions for victims to protect themselves and regain financial control.

Common Tactics of Technology-Facilitated Economic Abuse

Abusers can exploit technology in various ways to cause financial harm, including:

Manipulating smart home devices

Changing settings on thermostats, lighting, or appliances to increase utility bills, even after separation if the abuser still has access to shared devices.

Running up debt

Misusing telecommunication accounts (e.g., mobile phones, family plans) in the survivor’s name to accumulate debt.

Threatening through e-transfers

Using digital financial services to intimidate or harass victim-survivors.

Destroying or withholding devices

Sabotaging or withholding phones, computers, or other devices that victim-survivors need for work, financial management, or social connection.

Restricting access to accounts

Altering passwords, security questions, or access controls to block survivors from their financial accounts or credit cards.

Forcing inclusion on family plans or subscriptions

Adding themselves to victims' subscriptions or family plans without contributing financially, thereby increasing financial burdens and debt.

Deleting or selling digital assets

Sabotaging online resources such as work files, NFTs, cryptocurrencies, stocks, or other valuable digital property.

Online harassment and “review bombing”

Abusers may create fake accounts to damage the victim-survivor’s online business reputation or fraudulently report their business.

Credit fraud

Abusers may anonymously apply for credit cards in the victim-survivor’s name, causing financial damage and impacting their credit score.

Protect Yourself: Steps to Take Today

  1. Secure Your Devices: Change all passwords and ensure two-factor authentication is enabled on all important accounts.
  2. Monitor Your Financial Activity: Regularly check your bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for any unauthorized transactions.
  3. Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice fraudulent transactions or activities, report them to the appropriate authorities, including financial institutions.
  4. Get Help: Contact us for personalized support and guidance on how to navigate the complexities of technology-facilitated economic abuse.

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Canadian Center for Women’s Empowerment

Ottawa, Canada
Corp no 1187774-7
info@ccfwe.org

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