Learn About Abuse

Online Safety

Protecting Yourself Online

In today’s digital world, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your privacy and safety online, especially if you’re experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or harassment. Abusers can use technology to monitor, manipulate, or harass their victims, so knowing how to safeguard your online presence is essential.

Safety Tips for Online and Computer Use

• Ensure Your Computer is Safe: If you think your online activity is being monitored, try to use a computer that the abuser doesn’t have access to, like one at a library or a friend’s house.
• Private Browsing: Many browsers offer an incognito or private mode, which doesn’t save your browsing history or cookies. While this can help protect your online privacy, it’s not foolproof. Regularly check your browser settings and be cautious of keylogging software that could track your activity.
• Clear Your Search History: If you fear your search history may be tracked, clear your browser history as often as possible. Just avoid making too many changes that might raise suspicion if an abuser is monitoring your activity. You may want to consider clearing only searched or site visits you want to hide, not your entire history.
• Avoid Email and Messaging for Sensitive Topics: Emails and text messages may not be secure or confidential. When discussing your own safety or making plans, it’s safer to make phone calls from a secure device.
• Secure Your Devices: Lock your phone, tablet, or computer with a password or PIN, and enable two-factor authentication on important accounts whenever possible.

How Younity Helps

• Safety Policy: If you feel you are in immediate danger, use the “LEAVE THIS SITE” button at the top of the page to exit quickly. Remember, there’s always a trail, so using a safer computer is best if you suspect your online activity is being monitored.
• Tech Safety Guidance: Our advocates can help you incorporate technology safety into your overall safety plan, including identifying and removing spyware or tracking devices, securing your social media accounts, and navigating digital spaces more safely.
• Training for Online Safety: A professional from our Education & Prevention Program can provide training on online safety—offering guidance on protecting digital privacy and navigating technology safely, especially in the context of abuse or harassment.

If you need immediate assistance, contact us:

Call the 24/7 Younity Hotline (Mercer County): 609-394-9000
Line for Deaf/Hard of Hearing: 609-619-1888
State-Wide Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-572-SAFE