Unveiling the Menace of Digital Violence and Stalkerware: A Global Crisis Exposed

Wednesday 20 March 2024 - 11:47

In an era dominated by technology, a sinister reality lurks beneath the surface, threatening the fabric of our digital existence. Kaspersky, a leading figure in cybersecurity based in Russia, has issued a stark warning through its latest report, "The State of Stalkerware in 2023," shedding light on a disturbing trend that demands immediate attention.

The report's revelations are chilling: 31,031 mobile users worldwide fell prey to stalkerware, a malicious surveillance software often employed by domestic abusers to monitor their victims. This represents a worrisome 5.8% increase from the previous year, underscoring the escalating threat of digital violence.

Stalkerware typically disguises itself as legitimate anti-theft or parental control applications, granting perpetrators invasive access to their victims' lives. From tracking locations to intercepting messages and even hijacking device cameras, these tools facilitate a pervasive form of abuse that violates the fundamental right to privacy.

Russia leads the pack with a staggering 9,890 victims, followed closely by Brazil (4,186) and India (2,492). Iran, a newcomer to the top five, maintains its position, highlighting the global reach of this insidious threat.

However, the report doesn't just spotlight stalkerware; it paints a broader picture of the digital violence epidemic. Shockingly, 40% of individuals surveyed worldwide admit to experiencing or suspecting stalking, indicating the widespread nature of this menace.

Emma Pickering, Head of the Technology-Facilitated Abuse and Economic Empowerment Team at Refuge, expressed deep concern over the report's findings. "The statistics revealed in this report are deeply troubling, though regrettably not surprising," she remarked. "At Refuge, we've witnessed a disturbing rise in survivors reporting issues related to stalkerware."

Echoing these sentiments, Erica Olsen, Senior Director of the Safety Net Project at the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), emphasized the critical importance of distinguishing between consensual sharing and non-consensual monitoring. "A mere 4% admitted to reluctantly agreeing to monitoring at their partner's behest – this isn't genuine consent," she cautioned. "It's crucial to draw a clear line between consensual sharing and non-consensual surveillance. True consent is freely given, devoid of coercion."

In a proactive bid to combat this threat, Kaspersky has taken bold initiatives. In 2019, the company introduced an innovative alert system that notifies users of stalkerware presence on their devices. Additionally, Kaspersky played a pivotal role in establishing the Coalition Against Stalkerware, a global alliance comprising private IT firms, NGOs, research bodies, and law enforcement units, all committed to combating cyberstalking and supporting victims of digital harassment.

David Emm, a security and data privacy expert at Kaspersky, stressed the importance of fostering open communication in relationships, setting clear boundaries, and promoting digital literacy. "These insights underscore the ongoing need for cybersecurity education and empowering individuals to make informed choices regarding personal information sharing in relationships," he emphasized.

Meanwhile, in Morocco, the threat of mobile cyber attacks looms large, with the country recording over 56,000 incidents in 2023, according to another recent Kaspersky report. Recognizing the urgency, Kaspersky teamed up with the Cadi Ayad school in Casablanca to host a "Family Day" event, aimed at educating children and parents about IT and online safety.

As the digital landscape evolves, the specter of stalkerware and digital violence looms large, necessitating urgent action from individuals, organizations, and governments. It's imperative to prioritize cybersecurity and cultivate a safer online environment before the scourge of digital abuse tightens its grip and undermines our digital freedoms. The time to act is now.