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Online content that teaches controlling behaviour as 'normal'
Some online communities and influencers teach that monitoring your partner, controlling their behaviour, and using manipulation are normal parts of relationships. This content radicalises people — often young men — into believing abuse is acceptable.
What You Might Notice
Someone in your life starts using language about 'high value' people or 'alpha' behaviour
This language often comes from communities that normalise control and dehumanise partners.
They talk about relationships in transactional terms
Viewing relationships as exchanges of value rather than partnerships of equals is a red flag.
They justify monitoring or controlling behaviour as 'protecting' the relationship
Framing surveillance as care is a learned pattern from these communities.
What You Can Do
Recognise the pattern
If someone's attitude toward relationships has changed after consuming specific online content, the content may be the problem.
Talk to young people about what they're watching
Many teenagers encounter this content through algorithm recommendations on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
Approach with curiosity, not judgement — 'what are you watching?' not 'that's terrible.'
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.
Exposure to online content promoting control, surveillance, and abuse of partners as normal or desirable. Includes 'red pill' communities, incel forums, Andrew Tate ecosystem, pickup artist material, and 'alpha male' content. These communities normalise coercive control, frame surveillance as rational, and teach manipulation techniques as 'relationship skills.'
Mitigations for this technique are under development. If you have suggestions on how to improve this content, please submit a pattern.
Detection Indicators
ID
Detection Indicator
SAFE-D-0001
Anomalous Battery Consumption Device battery depletes faster than baseline due to continuous background data transmission.
SAFE-D-0002
Unexplained Data Usage Increased mobile data consumption without corresponding user activity. Monitor per-app data usage for unknown processes.
SAFE-D-0003
Device Temperature Anomalies Device runs hot during idle periods indicating background process activity.
SAFE-D-0004
Information Leakage Indicators Adversary demonstrates knowledge of private communications, locations, or activities accessible only through device monitoring.
SAFE-D-0005
Unknown Applications or Profiles Presence of unrecognised apps, device administrator privileges, or configuration profiles.
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.