As a survivor of domestic abuse, staying safe online is an important part of protecting yourself. While technology can be a powerful way to access support, stay connected, and rebuild independence, it can also be misused by abusers as a tool for control.
It’s important to remember that you have every right to use technology and social media safely. Abuse is never your fault. What matters is building awareness around potential risks and learning how to use digital tools in ways that support your safety and wellbeing.
Here are some practical steps you can take:
Keep your accounts secure
Start by updating your passwords and making them strong and unique. Enable two-factor authentication wherever possible for an extra layer of protection. If it feels safe to do so, consider setting up a new email account that your abuser does not know about and use it for important logins and recovery options.
Check your devices for monitoring
In some cases, abusers may install spyware or access devices through shared accounts. Look through your apps for anything unfamiliar, particularly those with vague or generic names. Check whether your phone is connected to shared accounts such as Apple ID. If you have concerns, a factory reset may help, but only consider this if it is safe for you to do so.
Turn off location tracking
Review your settings and disable location sharing in apps like Facebook and Instagram. Make sure features such as Find My iPhone are switched off. It’s also a good idea to avoid sharing your location on social media in real time online.
Review your social media privacy settings
Set your accounts to private and regularly review who can see your posts and personal information. Limiting visibility can help reduce the risk of your activity being monitored.
Consider changing your phone number
If your current number is known by your abuser, you should consider changing it or using a secondary number. Only take this step if it feels safe and make sure trusted contacts and support services can still reach you.
Be mindful of shared devices
If you use shared or public devices, always log out of your accounts, especially email and social media.
You deserve to feel safe, both offline and online
You can contact Solace for confidential advice and support. Solace provides expert help for women and children affected by domestic abuse in London, including counselling, advocacy, and safe housing.