VICTIMS of domestic abuse are being warned to be aware of Christmas gifts that could contain hidden spyware.

As was reported nationally over the weekend, a new company supporting victims of digital abuse warned that abusers will hide cameras or listening devices inside presents such as mobile phones, laptops and toys to spy on their victims.

Digital-Trust has issued advice on its website and will be producing a step by step guide for victims of stalking that will help increase victims physical and digital safety.

Jennifer Perry, chief executive of the Digital-Trust, said: “Surveillance technology is getting cheaper, better disguised, simpler to use and easier to find. We work with domestic violence professionals who are telling us that the changing landscape of digital abuse is making it much more difficult to help and women and keep them safe.”

According to the trust, a wide variety of consumerised spyware is available to suit different types of abusers and almost all use multiple digital means of accessing their targeted victims including via the internet, social media, smartphones, GPS and surveillance technology.

Martin Lakeman, strategic co-ordinator for Worcestershire Forum Against Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence, said that although he is not aware of any Worcestershire incidents, he said it is recognised that technology plays an "ever increasing" role in cases of domestic abuse.

"We need to remember that domestic abuse is about power and control and technology offers offenders a way to control and monitor where their victims is, who they contact and where they go.

"We also need to remind ourselves that stalking is now a criminal offence and is treated seriously by the police. Sadly, the criminalisation came about as a result of people losing their lives at the hands of their perpetrators.

"If people suspect that they are being monitored or followed then they should tell someone and start keeping a diary of incidents and when they happen."

For practical advice on stalking visit www.stalkinghelpline.org/faq/about-national-stalking-helpline and for advice on what to do if you think you are being monitored, visit www.worcestershiredomesticandsexualabuse.co.uk or www.digital-trust.org.