At Starting Point, we understand that the internet can be both a lifeline and a potential risk for victims of domestic and sexual violence. We want to empower you with knowledge and tools to protect your digital footprint and maintain your safety while using technology. Here, we provide some practical advice and steps you can take to help safeguard your online activities.
Understanding Internet Privacy
It’s important to know how someone might access or discover your internet activities. Here are a few ways:
Email: If someone has access to your email account, they can read your incoming and outgoing mail. Make sure your account is secure and your password is hard to guess. If you receive threatening or harassing email messages, print and save them as evidence. They may constitute a federal offense.
History/Cache File: If someone knows how to read your computer’s history or cache file (automatically saved web pages and graphics), they may be able to see information you have viewed recently on the internet.
If someone has access to your computer, there’s no way to completely remove all activity. It’s also possible for spyware to be installed that can bypass safety features. The safest way to find information on the internet would be at a local library, a friend’s house, or at work.
How to Clear Your History or Empty Your Cache File
You can clear your history or empty your cache file in your browser’s settings. Here are some instructions for various browsers:
- Internet Explorer: Press ‘Ctrl,’ ‘Shift,’ and ‘D’ simultaneously to bring up the “Delete Browsing History” window. If this doesn’t work, select the “gear” in the top right corner, hover over “Safety”, and select “Delete Browsing History.” Ensure that everything except “Passwords” is selected, and then click “Delete”.
- Firefox: Pull down the “History” menu, select “Show all History,” right-click on a page you want to remove, and select “Forget about this site”.
- Chrome: Pull down the “History” menu, select “Show Full History,” select “Clear all browsing data,” ensure everything except saved passwords is checked, select an appropriate time period, and select “Clear browsing data”.
Note: For more detailed instructions on other browsers and platforms, including older versions and Macs, please refer to our comprehensive guide.
Private Browsing
Most modern browsers have a “Private Browsing” function, which doesn’t store any of the current session’s activity. Here’s how to access a “Private Browsing” window:
- Firefox: Pull down the “Tools” menu and select “Start Private Browsing”. Ensure that this is unselected at the end of the session.
- Chrome: Pull down the “File” menu and select “New Incognito Window”.
Note: For more detailed instructions on other browsers and platforms, including Internet Explorer and Macs, please refer to our comprehensive guide.
Remember, these steps may not completely hide your tracks. If you feel your safety is at risk, consider using a computer at a local library, a friend’s house, or work. For more information, check out resources from the American Bar Association Commission on Domestic Violence and WomensLaw.org.
Need to Talk?
If you need to talk to an advocate now, please don’t hesitate to call our 24-hour support line. We’re here to help, providing free and confidential services to victims of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Our goal is to support you with dignity and compassion.