Why the Law Must Catch Up
Technology has become woven into almost every part of our daily lives. The devices and apps we rely on to stay connected, feel safe or manage our routines are the same tools that can be misused to monitor, control and isolate.
At KMC Legal & Finance, we are seeing a growing number of clients facing abuse that leaves no visible marks. Instead, the harm happens quietly through screens, location services and shared digital access. Cosmopolitan UK recently highlighted this issue in a feature where our founder, Katie McCreath, shared insights from the cases we handle. It is encouraging to see national attention on something so often overlooked.
What this really means is… abuse has evolved. The law must evolve with it.
What is technology-facilitated abuse
It can look like:
- A partner secretly tracking a phone or car
- Logging in to online accounts to monitor conversations
- Using smart home devices to control someone’s movements
- Hiding AirTags in a bag or vehicle
- Accessing cloud backups long after a relationship ends
None of these methods involve physical force. That is what makes this abuse harder to spot. People often feel watched or unsafe long before they understand how information is being gathered.
One of the most distressing themes we see is uncertainty. Victims question themselves. They worry they sound paranoid. They doubt they will be believed. That hesitation can delay reporting and prolong harm.
Why the law is struggling to keep pace
There is currently no single UK offence that directly covers technology-facilitated abuse. Instead, solicitors must rely on laws written before this behaviour existed in the way we now see it:
- Stalking
- Harassment
- Controlling or coercive behaviour
- Computer Misuse Act where devices are accessed without permission
These laws can and do lead to convictions. But they were not designed for silent surveillance carried out through apps, location services and connected devices. Progress is being made… but not quickly enough.
We believe there should be clearer legal recognition of this specific form of abuse. Protection improves when the law names the behaviour for what it is.
Why the scale of the problem is increasing
Three reasons stand out:
- Technology is cheaper and more accessible
Features that once felt advanced are now standard in phones and vehicles.
- Monitoring can happen discreetly
Abusers no longer need confrontation to control.
- Most victims do not initially realise
Which means evidence and reporting are delayed.
As one of our clients recently said:
“I just thought I was becoming forgetful. I didn’t imagine someone was watching my every move.”
What to do if something doesn’t feel right
If you feel uncomfortable with how someone is interacting with your digital life, trust that feeling. You do not need a “smoking gun” or technical proof before speaking to a professional.
Here’s the thing. Abuse is still abuse even when the harm is digital.
We help people every day who are unsure whether what they are experiencing is acceptable. You do not have to have the language for it yet. You just have to reach out.
We stand with survivors. And we stand for change.
Technology-enabled abuse is growing fast. The law must recognise the reality of modern relationships and the quiet ways control can take hold.
KMC Legal & Finance will continue to:
- Support people experiencing this abuse
- Challenge damaging behaviour in both criminal and family courts
- Advocate for stronger legal protections across the UK
If any part of this feels familiar and you’re unsure where to begin, talk to us. We’re here to listen, guide and protect.
Contact our specialist team
📞 0800 9494 667
📩 hello@kmc-legal.co.uk
You are not alone. And we are on your side. Always in your corner
