Stay safe online

If you are worried someone is monitoring your internet use, these tips can help you browse more safely.

1. 01

   Browse in Private Mode

   Use Incognito (Chrome), Private Window (Firefox/Safari), or InPrivate (Edge). This prevents your browser from saving history, cookies, and form data for that session.

2. 02

   Clear Your History Regularly

   Delete browsing history, cookies, and cached files after each session. In most browsers, press Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+Delete (Mac) to open the clear-history dialog.

3. 03

   Be Careful on Shared Devices

   If you share a computer, tablet, or phone, avoid saving passwords or staying logged into accounts. Consider using a friend's device, a library computer, or a work device if it's safe to do so.

4. 04

   Check for Monitoring Apps

   Some abusers install tracking or spy apps on phones. If you suspect this, do not delete anything on that device - it may alert the abuser. Instead, use a different device for sensitive browsing.

5. 05

   Review Location Sharing

   Check that location sharing is turned off in your phone settings, Google/Apple account, and social media apps. Photos you share may also contain location metadata.

6. 06

   Use Separate Email Accounts

   Consider creating a new email address for safety-related communication, and only access it from a safe device. Use a password the abuser cannot guess.

7. 07

   Social Media Privacy

   Review who can see your posts, friend lists, and tagged photos. Consider logging out of social media when not using it, and avoid checking in at locations.

8. 08

   Document Safely

   If you need to keep records of abusive messages or incidents, store them somewhere secure - a password-protected cloud account, a trusted friend's device, or a hidden email draft. Avoid storing evidence on a monitored device.