Safeguarding Your Digital Escape: Cybersecurity Measures for Leaving Domestic Violence

As survivors of domestic violence take the brave step toward a new life, protecting their online presence is crucial to ensuring safety, privacy, and peace of mind. In this article, we'll delve into why cybersecurity precautions are vital when leaving an abuser and discuss practical steps survivors can take to establish a robust cyber safety plan.

The Digital Landscape of Domestic Violence

Abusers often exploit digital platforms to exert control over their victims. From monitoring messages to tracking locations, technology can become a weapon. That's why taking cybersecurity precautions is not just about protecting personal information—it's about safeguarding against potential threats that could arise during and after the separation.

Building Your Cyber Safety Plan

1. New Email, New Beginnings

Before you make your move, create a new email address that your abuser doesn't know about. Choose a strong password they can't guess. This private email becomes your sanctuary for legal correspondence, connecting with attorneys, and reaching out to domestic violence shelters.

2. Double Down on Security: 2 Factor Authorization

If you can safely do so, set up 2-factor authorization on your accounts. This adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that even if your abuser gains access to your password, they won't be able to breach your accounts without the second form of authorization.

3. Logout, Clear, and Browse Privately

Before you leave, log out of all accounts on devices. Clear the cache, history, and cookies from browsers to erase any traces. When researching legal matters or domestic violence-related information, use private browsing mode to prevent your search history from being discovered.

4. Location Privacy: Turning Off Location Settings

If you need to seek refuge in a shelter or secure location, turn off location settings on all your devices until you can safely wipe them. This prevents your abuser from tracking your whereabouts through your digital devices.

5. Post-Departure Precautions

Once you've left, if you're returning to the marital home, consider resetting the router and modem to eliminate potential unauthorized access. Extreme cases might require factory resetting devices, especially if there's a suspicion of keyloggers installed. If you're uncertain, consulting an IT professional can help ensure your devices are safe.

My Personal Encounter with Digital Surveillance

When discussing the importance of cybersecurity in leaving domestic violence, personal experiences can shed light on the gravity of the matter. I, too, faced the sinister ways technology can be used as a tool of control.

During my marriage, my abuser leveraged digital surveillance to maintain a tight grip on my life. He knew where I was, who I was talking to, and even what I was browsing online. This constant surveillance created a suffocating environment where I felt I had no privacy or agency.

As our separation began, his attempts to maintain control escalated. He attempted to track my movements using the car's GPS system, leaving me with a feeling of being perpetually watched. He even tried to gain unauthorized access to my social media accounts, using every digital avenue to pry into my life.
The most distressing part was the barrage of harassing emails that flooded my inbox, threatening my newfound independence. It became evident that his grip extended far beyond our physical encounters; it extended into the digital realm, blurring the boundaries between virtual and real life.

Stay safe!

As survivors of domestic violence embark on their journey toward freedom, embracing cybersecurity precautions is an integral part of creating a safe haven. Taking these steps can provide peace of mind, allowing survivors to focus on rebuilding their lives without the fear of digital intrusion. In this digital era, safeguarding your online presence is as crucial as securing your physical well-being. Remember, technology can empower you in your pursuit of independence, provided you take the right cybersecurity measures.