Technology has brought about substantial changes to the landscape of sex work globally. However, few studies have captured the holistic impact of mobile phones on the lives of female sex workers (FSWs) in India. In this exploratory study, 67 FSWs and 18 staff and leaders from local non-governmental organizations participated in in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. Respondents strongly emphasized the innumerable ways in which mobile phones had changed the sex work environment in terms of client solicitation and managing long-term relationships with clients. Results revealed a complex picture of significant risks as well as gains resulting from the use of mobile phones. Participant narratives also highlighted the challenges posed by technology in terms of invasion of privacy, incidents of blackmail, and violence. FSWs' personal agency was evidenced in innovative strategies to connect to social networks, stay safe, and maintain privacy. Results point to the need to adopt a nuanced stance regarding understanding the role of mobile phone technology in FSWs' lives. There is an urgent need to develop on-going supportive phonebased networks in addition to examining the broader implications for the development of technology-based interventions for vulnerable populations. ARTICLE HISTORY

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