Digital Safety Tips

Technology can be a powerful tool for connection and independence. Abusive partners also use digital tools to monitor, control, or harass survivors. Taking steps to protect your online privacy and digital footprint can keep you safer.

Signs Your Partner Is Monitoring You

They know about chats, locations, or online activities that you haven’t shared with them.
They put apps or software on your phone or computer that you don’t recognize.
They want your passwords or access to your devices.
You notice strange activity on your social media, email, or bank accounts (changed passwords, unread messages marked as read, etc.).
They are angry when you use a phone or computer privately.

Avoid making plans to leave or seeking help on a device that is being monitored. Use a trusted friend’s phone, a library computer, or a public device instead.

Steps to Improve Digital Safety

1. Secure Your Devices & Accounts

Update passwords – Use strong, unique passwords for each account and enable two-factor authentication. Consider a password storage program to keep logins in one secure place.
Check for spyware – Look for unknown apps on your phone, especially those labeled as “tracking” or “monitoring.”
Keep devices updated – Install security updates for your phone, computer, and apps to help prevent unauthorized access.
Use private browsing – When searching for help online, use incognito mode (Chrome) or private browsing (Safari, Firefox).

2. Protect Your Location & Online Activity

Turn off location tracking – Disable location services on your phone, apps, and social media.
Check shared accounts – Remove your abuser’s access from accounts and apps like iCloud, Google, and family phone plans.
Be mindful of smart home devices – Cameras, doorbells, and voice assistants can be used to track your movements.

3. Communicate Safely

Use a safe device – If you think your phone or computer is monitored, use a public device or friend’s device to seek help.
Be careful with email and text messages – Assume your abuser may read them. If possible, use a new email address or a burner phone for private communication.
Check social media privacy settings – Limit who can see your posts and avoid sharing real-time locations. Inform trusted contacts not to share your location on social media or post pictures of you if that feels unsafe.