Abstract

In recent years, forms of online harassment and sexual abuse facilitated through information and communication technologies (ICT) emerged. These ICT -supported attacks range from cyberstalking to online behavioural control. To date, many efforts to tackle technology-facilitated abuse (“tech abuse”) have centred on “conventional” cyber risks such as abuses on social media platforms and restrictions on devices such as phones and laptops. However, emerging technologies such as “smart”, Internet-connected devices as well as autonomous systems such as robots will expand domestic violence victims’ risk trajectories further. To provide an overview of this evolving research and policy area, ongoing efforts of the “Gender and Tech” Lab (formerly: Gender and IoT) will be shared. The presentation will give listeners an insight into the latest developments in this space and aspires to challenge assumptions around domestic abuse, (cyber)crime, and threats/risks.