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If you feel you're in immediate danger, contact 000. Save all threatening messages as evidence.
Threatening Messages
Someone sends you threatening messages through any digital platform — texts, emails, social media, or messaging apps. Threats may be explicit or veiled.
What You Might Notice
You receive messages that threaten violence or harm
Direct or implied threats to you, your children, your pets, or your property.
Threatening images or media are sent to you
Photos of weapons, your home, or other intimidating content.
Threats are disguised as concern or 'warnings'
Messages framed as 'I'm worried what might happen if...' or 'It would be a shame if...'
What You Can Do
Screenshot and save every threatening message
Include the sender's details, timestamps, and the platform. Save to a secure location.
Don't respond to threats
Responding can escalate the situation and encourage further contact.
Report to both the platform and police
Most platforms have specific reporting for threats. File a police report as well.
Consider an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO)
Courts can order the person to stop contacting you. A lawyer or support service can help.
Important: This resource provides general information, not personal advice. Every situation is different. The actions suggested here may not be safe in your specific circumstances — particularly if the person causing harm could notice changes to your devices or accounts. Always consider your physical safety first.
If you need personalised support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or your local specialist domestic violence service. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
Sending threatening messages to victim via any digital platform, including text messages, emails, direct messages, voice messages, or comments. Threats may be explicit (threatening violence, harm, or consequences) or implicit (veiled references to harm, ominous statements, or threatening imagery).
Evidence Preservation Screenshot and save all threatening messages with timestamps and sender details.
SAFE-M-0062
Platform and Law Enforcement Reporting Report threats to platform and police. Preserve evidence for legal proceedings.
SAFE-M-0063
Communication Boundary Enforcement Establish communication boundaries. Block on platforms where no legitimate contact required.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0057
Threatening Content Receipt Messages containing explicit or implicit threats of harm or adverse consequences.
SAFE-D-0058
Escalation Pattern Message tone becoming increasingly aggressive or menacing over time.
The TFA Matrix is a research framework under active development. Technique classifications, detection methods, and mitigations reflect current understanding and are subject to revision. This framework does not constitute forensic methodology, legal evidence standards, or clinical diagnostic criteria. Practitioners should apply professional judgement appropriate to their discipline and jurisdiction.