Smart devices like Google, Siri and Alexa could detect domestic violence

A new research shows that smart devices like Amazon’s Alexa, Apple’s Siri and Google Home could be used to combat domestic violence.

The Google Nest could help authorities fight domestic violence in the future.

“Big sister” assistance through Siri, Alexa or Google could offer an “unprecedented opportunity” to help detect cases of domestic violence and intimate partner violence, a study has found.

However, Monash University researchers behind the study have pointed out the ethical and political challenges involved, with the report calling into question the wisdom of pursuing the project.

“In particular, big sister would privatise policy responses to IPV while failing to address its social and structural causes, and perhaps intensify worries about the implications of coercive solutions to IPV for minority communities,” says the report, Should We Embrace Big Sister.

“Detecting and reporting IPV, or risk factors for IPV, using smart speakers is not a solution to IPV.”

The study notes that currently one in four Australian homes use smart speakers. And companies such as Google have already raised the potential of using the sensors in speakers to detect the “emotional state” of those nearby.

One researcher, Robert Sparrow, said using smart speakers in this way was not a sensible policy solution to IPV. “The underlying causes of IPV are gendered power relations between men and woman and society at large. Protecting women from an abusive partner in the home isn’t going to protect them because there’s violence outside of the home,” he said. “In fact, we argue against the development of this system but we also can see that if it were developed, the case for using it might be quite compelling.”

Professor Robert Sparrow is one of the researchers behind the study. Picture: supplied

Domestic Violence NSW deputy chief executive Elise Phillips says there needs to be careful consideration of how technology can be used safety to detect IPV and DV. “[Particularly] in a way that doesn’t put victims and survivors at greater risk,” she says. “We suggest that input from experts is really vital as we’re exploring these new technologies and new ways to address violence.”

The study authors and Ms Phillips raise the point that perpetrators who set up the speakers could later abuse them to their benefit.

“It’s important to recognise that some perpetrators may try to manipulate this technology in such a way they try to blame the victim/survivor for the abuse that is occurring,” Ms Phillips says.

Elise Phillips is the Deputy CEO of Domestic Violence NSW. Picture: supplied

“We know that victims sometimes get misidentified as the abuser. So that’s another really important consideration when it comes to that technology.”

Cases of IPV and DV greatly increase over December and January, due to a mixture of factors, Ms Phillips says. Social pressure, custody disputes, financial stress and indulging in alcohol and drugs can inflame violence, she says. She encourages people to stay safe and seek help.

“We encourage victims and survivors to reach out to 1800 RESPECT or NSW Domestic and Family Violence line which are available over the holiday period,” she says. A spokesman for 1800 RESPECT said its services would continue to be available “24/7 throughout the holiday period”.

For family and domestic violence support services, contact: 1800 RESPECT national helpline – 1800 737 732; Men’s Referral Service – 1300 766 491; Domestic Violence Line NSW – 1800 656 463; Relationships Australia – 1300 364 277; or Lifeline – 131 114