Safety & Technology

Navigating violence and stalking is very difficult and dangerous.  Here are some general tips and suggestions as it relates to safety and technology.  For additional help in planning for your safety, call an advocate.  

1.Trust your instincts.  If you suspect the abusive person knows too much, it is possible that your phone, computer, email, or other activities are being monitored.  Abusers and stalkers can act in incredibly persistent and creative ways to maintain power and control.

2.Use a safer computer. If anyone abusive has access to your computer, they might be monitoring your computer activities.  Try to use a safer computer when you look for help, a new place to live, etc.  It may be safest to use a computer at a public library, community center, or internet café.

3.Create a new email account. If you suspect that anyone abusive can access your email, consider creating an additional email account on a safer computer.  Do not create or check this new email from a computer your abuser could access, in case it is monitored. 

4.Check your cell phone settings.  If you are using a cell phone provided by the abusive person, consider turning it off when not in use.  Check the phone settings.  Many phones let you “lock” the keys so a phone won’t automatically answer or call if it is bumped.  If your phone has an optional location service, you may want to switch the location feature off/ on via phone settings.

5.Change passwords and pin numbers.  Some abusers use victim’s email and other accounts to impersonate and cause harm.  If anyone abusive knows or could guess your passwords, change them quickly and frequently.  Think about any password protected accounts- online banking, voicemail, etc.

6.Use a donated or new cell phone. When making or receiving private calls or arranging escape plans, try not to use a shared or family cell phone because cell phone billing records and phone logs might reveal your plans to an abuser.  Contact your local advocacy program to learn about donation programs that provide new cell phones and/or prepaid phone cards to victims of abuse and stalking.

7.Ask about your records and data. Many court systems and government agencies are publishing records to the internet.  Ask agencies how they protect or publish your records and request that the court, government, post office and others seal or restrict access to your files to protect your safety.

8.Search for your name on the internet. Major search engines such as “Google” or “Yahoo” may have links to your contact information.  Search for your name in quotation marks: “Full Name”.  Check phone directory pages because unlisted numbers might be listed if you have given the number to anyone.