In 2024, approximately 300,000 people in the UK were stalked by a partner or ex partner.
74% of these victims suffered violence or control during the relationships, and now living in fear for the future.
But this number continues to rise with the systematic failures and lack of response from police.
But this number continues to rise with the systematic failures and lack of response from police.
Iris is an app that works to prevent further violence, and provide a safety measure for victims of violent stalking.
With nothing like this already existing, the discreet app uses previous connections from a ‘known device’ to notify the user when their stalker is in a close proximity, allowing them to be vigilant and seek help from others if necessary.
Using Bluetooth Low Energy technology, there is no element of tracking involved in the app. As the ‘known device’ has already been connected via previous messages, phone calls, mutual wifi and bluetooth, Iris simply notices when the ‘known device’ connects in range and sends a notification to the user.
To ensure safety to those who may still be in relationships or contact with their stalkers, Iris uses subtle notifications, but if this isn't discreet enough, leveraging dynamic app icons, the icon on the home screen will have two states. A red version provides a more subtle indication if their stalker is close by.
With this app, the hope is that vulnerable people have more warning and time to seek help when their stalker is close by.