Tracking devices & technology-facilitated abuse

Technology is part of everyday life — helping us stay connected, organised, and safe. But in abusive relationships, this same technology can be used to monitor, control, and intimidate. At Broxtowe Women’s Project, we want you to understand the risks, recognise the signs, and know how to protect yourself.

This page explains what tracking devices are, how they can be misused, and where to get help.

What Are Tracking Devices?

Tracking devices are small, discreet tools designed to help people locate personal belongings, vehicles, pets, or loved ones. Common examples include:

• Smart tags (AirTags, Tile, SmartTag, etc.)

• GPS trackers

• Location-sharing mobile apps

• Vehicle trackers

• Smart watches or fitness trackers

• “Find my phone” features

These devices can have legitimate uses — but in abusive situations, they can easily become tools for surveillance and coercive control.

How Tracking Devices Can Be Misused in Domestic Abuse

Perpetrators may use tracking technology to:

• Monitor where you go and who you see

• Arrive unexpectedly at your location

• Control your movements or punish you for being somewhere they disapprove of

• Increase fear, anxiety, or isolation

• Collect information to continue harassment or stalking after a relationship ends

Technology-facilitated abuse is a growing pattern of coercive control. It may be invisible at first — but it is serious, dangerous, and illegal.

Signs You May Be Being Tracked

You may be experiencing tracking abuse if:

• A device notification alerts you to an “unknown” tracking tag moving with you

• Your ex-partner turns up unexpectedly, even in new or private locations

• You notice unusual behaviour on your phone, apps, or accounts

• Your car or belongings have been tampered with

• They seem to know your movements without being told

• You feel watched, followed, or controlled

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Tracking abuse is often hidden but very real.

How to Protect Yourself Safely

If you are concerned you are being tracked, it’s important to prioritise your safety. You can:

Check your devices

• Update your phone to receive tracking alerts

• Review app permissions

• Check “Find My” or shared-location settings

• Look for unfamiliar apps or profiles

Inspect belongings safely

Only check belongings when you are safe to do so, and avoid confronting the perpetrator.

Document incidents

Keep screenshots, notifications, or any suspicious behaviour. This can help police and support services.

Get professional support

Do not attempt to remove a tracker if doing so may escalate risk.

At BWP, we can support you in creating a safety plan and accessing the police, legal support, or specialist cyber safety advice.

Your Safety Matters — You’re Not Alone

If you are worried about tracking devices, online safety, or any form of domestic abuse, our team is here to listen and help.

📞 Broxtowe Women’s Project Helpline: 01773 719111
⏰ Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm (except weekends & bank holidays)

We will never judge you, and everything you share is confidential.

Further Information

You can read more about tracking devices and digital safety in the National College’s guidance (external resource).