Internet safety

At the top left of every page in this website, there is a button that reads, ‘Click here if you need to exit this site quickly’.

Click there if anyone (particularly your abuser) enters the room while you are using this website. It will close this website and redirect your browser to a neutral webpage.

Abusers often use ways of controlling or monitoring their victim’s actions including their online activities.

Internet browsers generally record the websites that an internet user has visited, and ‘spyware’ and ‘keylogging’ programs can allow a computer user’s actions to be tracked without them being aware of it.

If you are in an abusive relationship, there are some precautions that you should take when using the internet:

1. Clear your Internet history
   While it is difficult to completely delete your Internet history, you can make it less readily accessible.
   Click here for instructions for Windows, Apple/Mac and iPhone, iPad & iPod users.
   
   

1. Use a safer computer
   If you need to use the internet, try to use a computer at work, a public library, community centre, a trustworthy friend’s house, an Internet café or a women’s refuge.
   This is particularly important if you are looking at sensitive websites.
   It is safer to use a computer that is less accessible to your abuser.
   
   

1. Be careful when communicating online
   Messages sent through email accounts, social networking sites (such as MySpace or Facebook) and instant messaging services can be tracked and recorded.
   It is preferable to use other ways of seeking help, if they are available to you such as phoning a domestic violence helpline, women’s refuge or the Police.
   Always ensure that you properly log out of websites.
   
   

1. Create an alternative email account
   Do create or use an alternative account on any computer that your abuser may have access to.
   Create an anonymous user name and account you can use on a safer computer, but do not provide detailed information about yourself.
   
   

1. Protect or change your passwords
   Choose passwords for your email and other online accounts (such as online banking accounts) that would be difficult for your abuser to guess, particularly by avoiding personal details such as birthdays, nicknames or family details. You should also avoid sharing your passwords with other people.