Digital Safety for Survivors: Protecting Yourself Online

Technology has made it easier than ever for abusers to track, monitor, and control their partners. From GPS tracking apps to spyware to social media surveillance, digital abuse is a growing and serious concern.

If you are in an abusive situation, your phone and computer may not be safe. Here is what you need to know.

Your partner knows details about conversations you had privately. Your phone battery drains unusually fast (spyware uses battery). New apps appear that you did not install. Your partner always seems to know where you are.

If you suspect monitoring, do NOT delete the spyware or change your behavior suddenly. This could alert the abuser and escalate danger. Instead, use a different, safe device to research resources and make plans.

Use a safe device. A computer at a public library, a trusted friend's phone, or a new prepaid phone that your partner does not know about.

Use private browsing mode (Incognito/Private Window) when researching resources. But know that this is not foolproof if spyware is installed.

Change passwords from a safe device. Start with email, then financial accounts. Use strong, unique passwords your partner cannot guess.

Review app permissions on your phone. Check which apps have access to your location, microphone, and camera.

Turn off location sharing on all social media platforms. Review who can see your posts, your friends list, and your check-ins. Consider creating new accounts that your partner does not know about.

Be cautious about what friends post about you. Ask trusted people not to tag you or share your location.

The Safety Net project at the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) has a technology safety plan specifically for survivors: techsafety.org.

National DV Hotline: 1-800-799-7233. You can also chat online at thehotline.org. If you need support, CTA is here: ctabts.org.