Moving Out Moving On

If you are currently married to or dating someone in Law Enforcement and your instincts tell you that you are being tracked, stalked or abused, you should use a computer that your abuser does not know about.  Computers are available at public libraries, Internet cafés and at sites in your community, such as, park districts or a community technology center (http://www.ctcnet.org).  You can also use a computer at the home of a trusted friend. 

INTERNET SAFETY

Computers record everything you do. It is IMPOSSIBLE to clear your tracks completely. Your computer stores hundreds of bits of information about everything you do with your computer, including information about websites you have visited, passwords, and emails. It is possible that your abuser is tracking the websites you visit or reading your email messages.

If you suspect your activities are being monitored, they probably are.   Abusive people are often controlling and want to know your every move. You don’t need to be a computer programmer or have special skills to monitor someone’s computer activities – anyone can do it. There are many ways to monitor your activities - even without having direct access to your computer. 

Email

Email is not a safe or confidential way to communicate.  You are better off to use a phone at a friend’s house or a pay phone in the event that your abuser knows your email password.

If you must use email to discuss your situation or to look for resources, use an email address that your abuser doesn't know about.  Set up anew account with a free email service like Hotmail, or Yahoo.   Use an address that is unlike your own name.  Make up something that won’t lead to you.

Internet Search

Search the Internet for your own name.  This is especially important if you have left an abusive situation.  Advise friends not to post photos of you on a site such as MySpace or FaceBook.  There is little you can do if your personal information, such as your new address shows up on a search engine, but you will know that it is out there.  If your abuser is using the Internet to stalk you or is posting inappropriate content or threats about you, contact the authorities and your attorney.