Domestic Violence Organizations Online: Risks, Ethical Dilemmas, and Liability Issues by Jerry Finn (August 2002).

This paper outlines the risk and liability issues related to use of the Internet and suggests risk-management guidelines to protect domestic violence organizations from liability. The paper also discusses the lack of empirical research in online service delivery and suggests research approaches for further understanding of the use of online services. The information is grouped into sections of: general liability issues, provision of direct services, website issues, and research needs.

The paper highlights that domestic violence organizations are presently using the Internet for: organizational visibility, direct services, community education, advocacy, and securing resources. While noting some benefits of such use (e.g. time savings, broader information dissemination and availability), it makes clear several potential risks involved with providing online service delivery. The paper indicates that those who are considering providing direct services online, especially counseling-related services, should carefully assess such things as how: to protect privacy, security and confidentiality; to consider establishing the identity of someone who contacts or requests services via the Internet; to ensure and provide appropriate assessment; and to think about their jurisdiction given state laws.

The paper recommends that in any online counseling service provision, organizations should always explain to online "clients" / "consumers" what the differences are between in-person and online counseling, including that online counseling is largely untested. It reminds that helping professionals are still ethically and legally bound to their duties to: "3rd parties" if a client presents a danger to self or others; to vulnerable populations including suicidal clients; and to be available to clients.

In general, Finn recommends that domestic violence organizations should: review any online/web-based services offered to decide whether its an appropriate to refer survivors; work with survivors to create safety plans about online vicitimization; and, provide education around potential negative consequences of using online communications.

If a domestic violence organization is planning a website, it should: have clear contracts about who owns the website; ensure that copyright is respected, and be prepared for email threats and disruption of online services. Finn provides suggestions to assist organizations in making decisions whether or how to post personal information on a website, and lists elements of a good website disclaimer statement. The paper recommends that the organization publicize and have written policies about email communications for service provision, and also have email policies around general staff use.

This document was commissioned by Violence Against Women Online Resources

• Domestic Violence Organizations Online: Risks, Ethical Dilemmas, and Liability Issues