Image from pixabay.com
Domestic violence is on the rise across the globe, but the vice seems to be shifting from outright physical abuse to tech manipulation and control. Many abusive people spy on their spouses using technology in a bid to exercise authority and control. But, are there laws that govern spying? Yes. But the question of spying being legal or illegal depends on several factors.
Is Spying Illegal? Law Vs Morality
Several reports have shown how governments eavesdrop on their citizens, turning the idea of hacking and spying into a street folk talk. While many people understand the importance of the right to privacy, it can be difficult to fully protect yourself from government surveillance. However, you can certainly do something to prevent individuals from spying on you.
If you suspect that your abuser is secretly peeping into your affairs, there are several precautions you can take to ensure your safety and freedom. But before we delve into them, is spying illegal? Most of the things we do when trying to peep into the activities of our employees, spouses, or children are illegal. As long as someone is spying on a device that they don’t own, there are high chances that they are contravening the law. The same applies to spying on someone.
In short, there is a very thin line between ethics and morality when spying on other people. This is a hot philosophical discourse, and the outcome varies from person to person. So, it’s all about what is legal and what is morally right. More importantly, you should be thinking about the law while evaluating whether your actions are right or wrong. For example, spying on your child’s smartphone could protect them from the threats of the internet. Ultimately, you could help them maintain discipline and grow into responsible adults.
However, installing spyware on your spouse’s phone could land you in serious trouble. The same applies to employers snooping on their employees without their consent. Legally speaking, it’s up to you to ensure that you’re using the spyware software within the acceptable legal frameworks.
Tips to Protect Yourself from Spyware
Whichever side you stand, it can be devastating for domestic violence survivors to realize that their abusers are using technology to inflict more harm on them. If your abuser manages to install spyware or other surveillance apps on your device, they could maintain power and control over your life. Here are some tips to help you out.
Apply Patches to Installed Software
For all your software applications like Microsoft Office, Java, or Adobe products, be sure to install the latest patches. These vendors often release software patches for all their products to address vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can capitalize on. That way, you can protect your device from malware such as spyware that can be used to monitor your activities.
Check Your Browser Settings
If someone has access to your computer, they could exploit your browser and access your various online accounts. Updated web browsers can protect you from spyware threats. Most web browsers can warn you of dangerous programs and suggest a safe course of action. Additionally, ensure that your browser is properly configured and that all add-ons and plug-ins are updated, including Adobe products, Flash, and Java.
Enable Firewall Protection
Firewalls monitor your network and block suspicious traffic, which can prevent people from infecting your system with spyware. Always activate your Microsoft Windows Defender Firewall on your computer to prevent malicious attacks.
Encode Your Communications
At whatever point pertinent, use coded correspondence channels when reaching your friends and family. Various web-based applications like Viber, Telegram, and WhatsApp have encryption functionalities that make it hard for stalkers and abusers to make sense of your communications even if they manage to access it.
Summary
Continuously utilize these tips to improve security, assurance, and freedom. Ceaselessly secure your devices, make sure your phone, PC, vehicle, and other IoT-empowered gadgets can be trusted, back up your information, and build up a secure correspondence with your loved ones. Furthermore, strive to manage your money-related issues for added freedom and security.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDelete