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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Rachel Hall

FORGOTTEN HISTORY: Abusers using ai and digital tech to attack and control women charity warns | History Defined

Woman asleep in darkened room wearing smartwatch
Women’s groups are calling for tech developers to take into account women’s safety. Photograph: Oscar Wong/Getty Images

Domestic abusers are increasingly using AI, smartwatches and other technology to attack and control their victims, a domestic abuse charity says.

Record numbers of women who were abused and controlled through technology were referred to Refuge’s specialist services during the last three months of 2025, including a 62% increase in the most complex cases to total 829 women. There was also a 24% increase in referrals of under-30s.

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