Episode Details

• You feel like your ex knows things they shouldn't

• You suspect you're being tracked, monitored, or watched

• You're going through separation and worried about digital safety

• Your ex had access to your devices, passwords, or accounts

• You want to protect yourself and your children from tech-based abuse

What if your ex knew where you were… who you were talking to… and what you were saying — without you ever telling them?

In this episode, we're joined by Catherine Plunkett, Director of Safety Net Australia at WESNET, to unpack the growing reality of technology-facilitated abuse in relationships and after separation.

Because abuse doesn't always leave bruises.

Sometimes it looks like:

• your ex showing up where you are unexpectedly

• knowing things you never told them

• accessing your messages, accounts, or location

And increasingly, this is becoming one of the most common forms of domestic and family violence.

We break down what tech abuse actually is, how it happens, the warning signs to look for, and most importantly what you can do to protect yourself and your children.

If something doesn't feel right, this episode will help you understand what might be happening and what steps you can take next.

00:00 – Is Your Ex Spying on You? Hidden Tech Abuse Signs

01:35 – What Is Tech Abuse? How It Works in Relationships

05:10 – How Common Is Digital Abuse After Separation?

06:52 – Tracking Apps, Spyware & How People Monitor You

12:06 – Warning Signs Your Phone or Accounts Are Compromised

16:20 – What NOT to Do If You Suspect You're Being Watched

18:00 – Digital Safety Checks & Getting the Right Support

20:33 – Safe Phones, New Devices & Protecting Your Accounts

23:12 – That "Alarm Feeling": Trusting Your Instincts

24:11 – Smart Homes & Hidden Tracking Risks You Didn't Expect

26:31 – Cars, GPS & How Vehicles Can Track You

27:45 – Digital Safety Checklist: Steps You Can Take Today

30:47 – How Kids Can Be Used in Tech Monitoring

35:20 – AI, Deepfakes & The Future of Digital Abuse

38:39 – Where to Get Help for Tech Abuse

41:17 – Your Right to Privacy and Safe Communication

42:27 – What Safety Net Australia Does for Victims

44:19 – Final Thoughts, Support & Next Steps

• Safety Net Australia – https://techsafety.org.au

• eSafety Commissioner – https://www.esafety.gov.au

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