Artificial intelligence creates new risks for domestic abuse victims/survivors through surveillance, deepfakes, and automated harassment. At the same time, AI tools can improve access to information, safety planning, and support services. Both possibilities require careful, ethical consideration from organisations, policymakers, and technology developers.
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday life. From virtual assistants and smart home devices to chatbots and image generation tools, AI is changing how people communicate, work, and access information. These developments bring genuine benefits. They also introduce serious new risks, particularly for those experiencing domestic abuse.
This blog explores both sides of that reality.
How can AI be used to facilitate domestic abuse?
Domestic abuse has long included the misuse of technology. AI-powered tools can amplify existing patterns of coercive control in several ways.
Surveillance is one of the most immediate concerns. Smart home devices, location sharing apps, and connected household technology can be used to monitor a person’s movements, routines, and communications. AI-enhanced systems make this surveillance far more sophisticated, providing detailed behavioural insights without a victim’s knowledge.
Deepfakes and image manipulation present another serious threat. AI can generate realistic images, videos, and audio recordings. Perpetrators may use these tools to create false content designed to humiliate, threaten, or discredit victims/survivors. The emotional impact of manipulated content can be profound, even when it is proven to be fabricated.
Harassment at scale is also a growing concern. AI tools can automate messages, emails, and social media interactions, enabling perpetrators to continue harassment across multiple platforms simultaneously. The resulting volume of contact can significantly increase fear and anxiety for victims/survivors.
Impersonation and deception round out the picture. Voice cloning and text generation tools can be used to impersonate victims, family members, or professionals, damaging relationships and manipulating support networks in ways that are difficult to detect or prove.
What impact does technology-facilitated abuse have on victims/survivors?
When devices in the home, online accounts, or digital communications become tools of control, abuse can feel constant and inescapable. Victims/survivors may become reluctant to use technology, access online support, or communicate with friends and family out of fear of being monitored. This increases isolation and makes it significantly harder to seek help.
How can AI be used to support domestic abuse victims/survivors?
Despite these risks, AI also presents real opportunities to improve support for those affected by domestic abuse.
Access to information is one of the clearest benefits. AI-powered chatbots and online tools can provide information about domestic abuse, legal rights, and available support services at any time of day. For individuals who are unsure whether their experiences constitute abuse, these tools may offer a valuable first step toward understanding their situation.
Safety planning resources can also be delivered more effectively through AI, helping victims/survivors identify practical steps to increase their safety while maintaining control over their own decisions.
Improved service delivery is another opportunity. Support organisations can use AI to assist with administrative tasks, freeing staff to spend more time supporting clients directly. AI may also help identify trends, improve resource allocation, and enhance service accessibility.
Language and accessibility support through translation tools and accessibility features can help more people access services, particularly those who face language barriers or communication challenges.
What are the ethical considerations around AI and domestic abuse?
AI should never replace professional support, advocacy, or human judgement in cases involving domestic abuse. Important concerns around privacy, confidentiality, bias, and the accuracy of AI-generated information must be taken seriously.
The path forward for organisations and policymakers
The relationship between domestic abuse and artificial intelligence is complex. As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, policymakers, technology companies, support services, and communities must work together to understand both the risks and the opportunities it presents.
Technology itself carries no inherent moral value. What matters is how it is used, and by whom. Recognising the potential for harm while embracing opportunities for support and innovation is how we ensure that advances in AI contribute to greater safety and empowerment for those affected by domestic abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available. Reaching out to a trusted organisation or professional can be an important first step toward safety and recovery.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available. Reaching out to a trusted organisation or professional can be an important first step towards safety and recovery. In addition to the support services below, Refuge provides free online safety resources, including the Home Tech Tool and Digital Breakup Tool, which offer practical guidance on staying safe when technology may be being used as part of abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, confidential support is available:
- Support for women experiencing abuse: National Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247
- MenKind Initiative: Support for male victims of abuse on 01823 334244
- Karma Nirvana: Support for those affected by so called honour based abuse on 0800 5999 247
- Galop: Support for LGBTQ+ people experiencing abuse on 0800 999 5428
- Samaritans: Emotional support, available 24 hours a day on 116 123
- Refuge Home Tech Tool: https://refugetechsafety.org/hometech/
- Refuge Digital Breakup Tool: https://refugetechsafety.org/digitalbreakup/
If you are in immediate danger, call 999.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is technology facilitated abuse in the context of domestic abuse?
Technology facilitated abuse refers to the use of digital tools, including smartphones, smart home devices, and AI-powered applications, to monitor, control, harass, or intimidate a victim. AI amplifies existing abusive behaviours by making surveillance more sophisticated and harassment easier to automate.
Can AI chatbots safely support domestic abuse victims/survivors?
AI chatbots can provide helpful information and signposting, particularly outside of office hours. However, they are not a substitute for professional support. Any AI tool used in this context must be developed with the primary considerations of survivor safety, privacy, and confidentiality.
What should support organisations consider before using AI tools?
Organisations should assess the privacy implications of any AI tool, ensure it is developed with input from people with lived experience, and establish clear policies on data use. Regular audits and staff training are also essential to ensure the tool does not unintentionally increase risk for victims/survivors.
How can perpetrators use deepfakes to harm victims/survivors?
Perpetrators can use AI-generated images, videos, or audio recordings to create false content depicting a survivor. This content may be used to threaten, blackmail, humiliate, or discredit the victim. The harm caused by deepfake content can be significant even when the fabrication is later proven.
