The Intersection between Intimate Partner Abuse, Technology, and Cybercrime: Examining the Virtual Enemy

Research studies continue to show that intimate partner abuse is a global social problem with severe consequences. However, while studies have advanced the understanding of what constitutes abuse (e.g., emotional abuse, financial abuse, etc.), there remains a dearth of information on how technology is utilized by perpetrators. The sparse information that is available indicates that technology has indeed become a tool by which abusers exert power and control over survivors. As a result, some have suggested the idea of "feeling safe" from perpetrators has eroded for survivors of intimate partner abuse. Thus, the purpose of this book is to present the current state of knowledge on the intersection between intimate partner abuse, technology, and cybercrime through the contributions of experts in criminology, psychology, and sociology. In order to present this research, the book begins with an overview of the current state of knowledge on intimate partner abuse. In addition, a chapter is devoted to how the Internet has changed the manner by which relationships (positive and negative) are formed. Then, in the next set of chapters, specific types of cybercrime that intersect with intimate partner abuse (e.g., cyberharassment, cyberstalking, etc.) are discussed in great detail by experts in the field. Along with the aforementioned chapters, a section of the text also focuses on characteristics of the online predator specifically. Finally, chapters discussing policing initiatives and legislative reactions are also included.