Technology: How Safe Is It Really for Women?

Technology often plays a crucial role in keeping people safe. But it’s not always the silver bullet it seems. Take the case of Laken Riley, a college student who was tragically killed. Riley was cautious, using her phone to share her location and calling for help, yet it wasn't enough to save her. The question many people are asking is: How can we balance the benefits of using technology to stay safe while being aware of its limitations and risks? After Riley’s death, her sister, Lauren Phillips, now can’t walk freely on campus because of fear. It’s natural to wonder if technology might offer false security. In court, Lauren shared her fears openly, highlighting the pain and terror caused by the accused, Jose Ibarra, who is now convicted and sentenced to life in prison. This incident has led many to rethink how technology factors into safety measures. There are various safety tools available today, from apps that share your location to personal alarms. But even with all these tools, horrible incidents like this keep happening. Investigators relied on digital data to catch Ibarra, but this raises another question: Does our reliance on tech make us more vulnerable? For instance, your smartphone can leave a trail for investigators to follow, which can be vital. In court cases like that of Alex Murdaugh and others, data from phones played a crucial role. Yet, technology can also be misused by people who want to cause harm. This double-edged sword means we have to be savvy about how we use our tech. Organizations like the Safety Net Project aim to educate people on tech safety and privacy. They emphasize that while tech can be a great tool, it also has gaps we need to close. Knowing how to reduce your digital footprint and being careful about who you share your info with are key steps. The bottom line is, technology can help, but it's not infallible. It takes a combination of careful use and vigilance to truly stay safe. The day Laken Riley was killed, another student’s vigilance helped link the killer to the crime. It shows that staying alert can make a difference.