Cyber Financial Abuse
- Cyber financial abuse or online financial abuse refers to the use of digital banking, applications, or online transactions to exert control, manipulate, or steal from an individual. - Cyber financial abuse represents a method of control in which offenders utilise technology to monitor, manipulate, or constrain an individual's finances. - This can manifest through unauthorised fund transfers, the creation of fictitious online debts, restricting access to digital accounts, employment sabotage, identity theft, financial scams. - This can include investment scams, fake authority scams, online shopping scams, false billing scams, false payment scams. - Gaining access to online banking, modifying passwords, or assuming control of digital accounts to misappropriate funds. - Coercing individuals into enrolling in online loans, credit cards, or phone contracts, or generating digital debt under their identity. - This is all aimed at exerting power and control over the victim and isolating the victim.
Therapy approach
- Stabilising: Reducing the sense of being overwhelmed and increasing safety in the present.
- Clarifying: Naming the pattern and the impact without self-blame.
- Rebuilding: Creating agency, boundaries, and practical next steps.
- Integrating: Strengthening trust in your decisions and relationships.
Session formats
- Trauma‑informed counselling appointments in person or via telehealth.
FAQs
I am I am frightened, angry and at a loss of what to do?
Gather essential financial documents such as bank statements, bills, identification, and records of abuse. Produce printed copies. When feasible and safe, update passwords, secure online accounts, and contemplate establishing new bank accounts independent of the abuser. Explore financial assistance or compensation options for victims of crime via state or territory services.