If you are being subjected to digital abuse, help is available.
Depending on whether or not you are living with the person who is harming you, you may choose to take different steps. Make sure it is safe before taking any of these actions. Some actions you take to increase your security or privacy might alert an abuser, and they might choose to escalate their abusive behaviour.
If you are not sure what to do, it’s best to get in touch with a specialist service, such as ourselves or the national domestic abuse helpline Homepage – National Domestic Abuse Helpline.
In an emergency, call 999. You can also report digital abuse online, by calling 101 or by visiting your local police station.
Passwords
Protect all your online accounts with a strong password. Change usernames and passwords, even if you don’t think they’ve been compromised. Also consider using two-factor verification for added security.
Check security settings
Update security settings on social media accounts so that only the people who you want to connect with can see your posts, photos and information.
Further info on securing social media accounts: Keep my social media private guide | Refuge Tech Safety
Location settings
Lots of apps and software record information about your geographical location, and this information could be misused by someone with access to your accounts or devices. Check which apps are using location settings and then turn off any that you don’t need.
Manage your Android device’s location settings here
Turn Location Services and GPS on or off on your Apple iPhone, iPad or iPod touch here
Tracking
There are many ways that tech can allow a person to follow your movements. The most common way is via apps that you have installed yourself, which another person then accesses information from. To minimise the risk of this, consider turning off tracking apps when not in use e.g. ‘find my friends/phone/tablet’, GPS fitness trackers, satnav. ‘Desynch’ from all other devices.
Connections
Do you have any connected or joint accounts? Could these have been installed on more than one device and could give someone access to your information or devices? This could include accounts for iTunes, app stores, Google Play store, eBay, Amazon, Kindle, Spotify, Netflix and others.
Other tech at home
Are there smart home devices e.g. Amazon Echo (Alexa), Google Home, a smart thermostat, house alarm system or other controls that can be accessed remotely and could be used to monitor or impact you? Change the passwords on these, to ensure that only trusted people can access them.
Secure your home WiFi network
A person may be able to access your devices via the WiFi network, which will be accessible without you being inside your home. Change the login details and password so that your network cannot be accessed without your knowledge.
Onward signposting/further information
The Refuge digital break up tool helps you review commonly used apps on your phone, laptop, or tablet. Our guides will help you to secure each digital platform.
The Refuge Tech Safety information includes guides for all social media platforms and how to secure them.
If you are linked to the Armed Forces contact us via our dedicated Forces helpline
Find out how to Cover your tracks online from Women’s Aid
Read what the Met Police say about Digital domestic abuse
The Cyber Helpline is a free, confidential helpline for anyone who has been a victim of cybercrime. They help individuals contain, recover, and learn from cyber attacks by linking them with cyber security experts who provide relevant advice and guidance. Their chatbot and team of volunteer cyber security experts will talk in a language that you understand and are able to advise you in all cyber security scenarios.
The Revenge Porn Helpline can provide information and help get online images removed.
#16days #NoExcuse and #ACTtoEndViolence
