Kaspersky Warns of Rising Tech-Driven Abuse and Digital Surveillance

Kaspersky has said that although incidents of technology-enabled harassment and surveillance are increasing, many people still do not treat such acts as a form of abuse. A recent study conducted by the company found that nearly half of adults have experienced some form of technology-facilitated abuse. However, there remains a major lack of awareness regarding the issue.

Technology-driven harassment includes online harassment, covert surveillance, identity impersonation, stalking, and the leaking of personal information. On social media, such behaviour is often perceived as normal.

Dr. Leonie Maria Tanczer, a researcher at University College London, said that technology-facilitated abuse has yet to receive proper recognition as harmful behaviour. As a result, many victims fail to receive the necessary support.

The study found that only 32 percent of people have a clear understanding of “tech-facilitated abuse.” Yet 45.7 percent of respondents said they had experienced such harassment.

Kaspersky stated that stalkerware is now emerging as a major threat. This software can be secretly installed on smartphones to monitor locations, calls, messages, and various other activities.

Tatiana Shishkova, a researcher at Kaspersky, said stalkerware can be installed easily and operates covertly, meaning many victims do not even realise they are under surveillance.

To combat technology-facilitated harassment, Kaspersky is working with the Coalition Against Stalkerware, a group formed by multiple organisations. The company has also advised users to utilise security software and remain alert about suspicious activities.

DBTech/RI/MUM/OR