Digital finance products used to abuse almost 20% of young women and girls, UK report finds

Survey respondents describe current or former partners controlling bank accounts and taking out credit online without full consent

Almost one in five young women and girls in the UK have experienced digital financial products being used as a tool of abuse by a current or former partner, a report has found.

Abusers are exploiting banking apps, online payments and digital credit to control young women, causing financial harm and preventing them from leaving relationships, according to research from the charity Surviving Economic Abuse.

In the UK, call the national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247, or visit Women's Aid. In the US, the domestic violence hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). In Australia, the national family violence counselling service is on 1800 737 732. Other international helplines may be found via www.befrienders.org