Free digital safety clinic for victims and survivors of domestic abuse
It has been set up by the charity IDAS
Survivors of domestic abuse who are worried about how technology is being used to monitor, track, or harass them can now access a free, in-person support clinic in York to improve their digital safety.
The charity IDAS is working in partnership with The Yorkshire & Humber Cyber Crime Unit to provide expert guidance on securing devices, protecting online accounts, and understanding legal rights in a safe and supportive space.
IDAS says: 'Technology-facilitated abuse is increasingly used as a form of control in abusive relationships. Survivors may feel unsafe but unsure of how to stop unwanted contact, check their devices for spyware, or improve their online privacy. These clinics offer practical, confidential advice tailored to survivors’ needs.'
What Support is Available?
Cybercrime experts will be on hand to help survivors:
✔ Identify and remove tracking apps or spyware on their devices
✔ Strengthen privacy settings on phones, social media, and online accounts
✔ Understand legal protections and how to report digital abuse
✔ Take simple steps to regain control of their technology and personal security
Camel Offord is from the Charity: "The clinics are there to talk you through some of the common types of technology abuse that is seen by this cyber crime team and then their experts will be on hand to look at devices, talk you through the intricacies of what you might be worried about."
"Survivors may be feeling a sense of unease, or a gut feeling that maybe something is not right, that somebody knows a bit more than they should or something is happening on their phone that doesn't feel right. Follow those instincts."