F E AT U R E
Online safety Modern technology allows abusers to track and spy on their victims cheaply and easily. Victims and survivors of domestic abuse who feel something is wrong should consider the possibility that they are being tracked or stalked through their computers, phones and social media accounts. These steps can help stop it
Social media In this era of oversharing, it’s easy for an abuser to gain information about his or her victim.
GPS tracking and monitoring GPS tracking devices can track and monitor objects and people in real time. Some abusers use this technology to keep tabs on their victims. Abusers may also spy on you with nanny cams or similar, which they can monitor from a remote location.
WHAT TO DO •
Don’t post or share anything you don’t want the world to know.
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Maintain strict control over your privacy settings on all accounts.
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Facebook’s privacy settings change constantly, but they do allow you to customise them to an extent. Put people into different groups and give those groups specific privileges. Change your settings so you have to review posts with you tagged in them. Go through and untag previous posts.
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Ask friends not to post or share anything about you online without your permission. Stress that it could put your safety in jeopardy.
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Consider unfriending people so they can’t see everything.
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Consider deleting your social media accounts entirely.
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Make these changes from a safe computer if you suspect your computer has spyware.
32 re:story THE VINTAGE ISSUE
WHAT TO DO •
If you believe you’re being tracked or stalked, check if there’s a GPS tracking device on your car and remove it. A small device may also be implanted in your clothing, shoes or handbag. If you decide to go to a safe house or refuge, don’t wear old clothing, buy something new in case your old clothes are compromised.
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Look for nanny cams and other surveillance devices in your home and at work.
