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Someone uses technology to restrict your spending — setting limits on cards, requiring approval for purchases, or controlling access to money through banking apps.
What You Might Notice
Your card is declined for purchases you should be able to make
Spending limits have been set without your agreement.
You need to request or justify every purchase
The other person requires approval before you can spend.
Restrictions change based on the other person's mood or as punishment
Your access to money is used as a tool of control.
What You Can Do
Contact your bank about your rights to your own accounts
You have legal rights to accounts in your name.
Build independent financial access gradually
A separate account, even with small amounts, creates options.
Seek financial counselling
Free financial counselling services can help you plan for financial independence.
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.
Using account controls, card limits, transaction blocks, or approval requirements to restrict what victim can spend money on, how much, and where. May exploit joint account features, parental controls on youth accounts applied to adults, or business account administrative features.
Legal Financial Advice Consult lawyer about financial rights and emergency relief options.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0127
Unexplained Transaction Declines Card declined despite available funds, or daily limits reduced without consent.
SAFE-D-0128
Spending Approval Requirements Spending limits or approval requirements enabled without user action.
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.