Technology plays a part in all our lives. It helps us to connect with friends, learn, game, create and share. However, not everyone online is friendly.
Some people use technology to manipulate, threaten or take advantage of others. Knowing what to look out for can help you stay safe and protect yourself and your friends.
What is tech-enabled abuse?
Tech-enabled abuse is when someone uses phones, apps, social media, gaming platforms or other technology to harm, pressure or control someone else. It is a form of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).
It is that deep.
It is also a crime.
Examples of tech-enabled abuse can include:
Sextortion
Someone may trick you into sharing an intimate image or video and then threaten to share it unless you send money, more images or do something they want.
Online Grooming
A person may pretend to be your friend, or someone your age to gain your trust before trying to exploit, manipulate or abuse you.
Cyberstalking
Repeated messages, unwanted contact, tracking your online activity or monitoring where you are can be forms of cyberstalking.
Deepfakes
Artificial intelligence can be used to create fake images, videos or audio that appear real. These can be used to embarrass, bully or exploit people online.
Sharing Intimate Images
Sharing or forwarding intimate images of someone without their consent can cause serious harm and may be a criminal offence.
We want to shine a light on this often‑hidden form of abuse, helping young people to recognise when digital behaviour crosses a line, and know that support is available.
Think you'd know when something isn't right online?
Sometimes it can be difficult to tell when online behaviour crosses the line.
This short film follows a realistic scenario that you could encounter online. As you watch, think about the choices being made, how the situation develops and whether there are any warning signs that should raise concern.
Could you spot the red flags?
Watch the video and see what you think...
Trust your instincts
Remember, if something doesn't feel right online, trust your gut.
You should never feel pressured to:
- Share personal information
- Send intimate images
- Keep secrets from trusted adults
- Meet someone you've only spoken to online
- Continue a conversation that makes you uncomfortable
Would you spot the red flags?
Not all harmful behaviour online is obvious.
Sometimes things that seem harmless, funny or "not that deep" can actually leave someone feeling uncomfortable, pressured or unsafe.
In this video, you'll see a realistic online scenario and hear young people's reactions to what happened. As you watch, think about the choices being made and whether there are any warning signs you would be concerned about.
What to do if something happens
If you're worried about something online:
- Stop communicating with the person
- Block and report the account
- Take screenshots or save evidence where possible
- Tell a parent, carer, teacher or another trusted adult
- Report it to the police if you feel unsafe or someone is threatening you
Remember
If someone has manipulated, pressured or tricked you online, it’s not your fault.
Support is available, and speaking up can help protect both you and others from harm.
If you're concerned about online abuse or exploitation, talk to a trusted adult or report it to the police.
Report it and get support.
Young Person's Advisory Service
Help us spread the message
Our It's Not That Deep Partner Toolkit contains a range of resources to help organisations, schools, youth services and community groups support the campaign and raise awareness of technology-enabled abuse among young people.
The toolkit includes social media assets, posters, key messages and campaign materials designed to encourage conversations about online safety, healthy relationships and recognising harmful online behaviour.
Download the toolkit here to help share the campaign, start important conversations and support young people to recognise the signs of abuse and know where to seek help.