2021–2023 · Completed project

DeStalk

Detect and stop stalkerware and cyberviolence against women

DeStalk addresses technology-facilitated gender-based violence by detecting and stopping the use of stalkerware and other forms of cyberviolence against women. Across Europe, digital abuse is closely linked to intimate partner violence: many survivors of offline abuse are also monitored, tracked or harassed through digital means. Stalkerware and cyber abuse represent hidden forms of coercive control, including surveillance, harassment, cyberstalking, misogynistic abuse and the non-consensual distribution of intimate content.

The project strengthens institutional and professional capacity to identify, prevent and respond to digital abuse by combining technological knowledge, professional training, victim-support approaches and perpetrator-focused interventions. It also promotes awareness and coordinated responses across services and public authorities.

Why it matters — DeStalk

Technology-facilitated abuse is a hidden but widespread form of gender-based violence that often accompanies intimate partner violence and remains largely undetected. By addressing stalkerware, cyberstalking and digital coercive control, the project strengthens the ability of professionals, institutions and support services to identify, prevent and respond effectively to digital abuse. Through capacity building, coordinated responses and replicable prevention strategies, DeStalk contributes to safer digital and offline environments for women across Europe.

Core Objectives

Improve detection and response to stalkerware and cyberviolence in intimate partner violence contexts.
Increase awareness and institutional preparedness to address technology-facilitated gender-based violence.
Strengthen professional capacity in victim support services, perpetrator programmes and public authorities.
Promote sustainable and replicable prevention strategies across European contexts.

Key Actions

Development of an online learning platform and professional training for IPV practitioners and public authorities.
Improvement of tools and skills for perpetrator programmes and victim support services.
Support for NGOs and institutions to enhance responses to cyberviolence.
Implementation of a regional awareness campaign and development of guidelines for replication.