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INTERNET & COMPUTER SAFETY
*The information stated here is limited in detail and does not guarantee
your online and computer safety. For more extensive information regarding
Internet and Computer Safety for victims of violence please go to the
National Network to End Domestic Violence
(NNEDV) Website
It is important to remember that computer technology can put your privacy
and safety at risk. There are hundreds of ways that your computers hard drive
can record everything you do on your computer and on the Internet. If you think 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 expert or have special skills to track someone’s computer
activities – anyone can do it and there are many ways to monitor a person's
online activities.
Computers can provide a lot of information about what you look
at on the Internet, the e-mails you send, and other related activities. It is
not possible to delete or clear all computer “footprints”. Footprints
are computer files such as cookies, Internet history, deleted files,
temporary Internet files, as well as other files often hidden from plain
view.
If you think your use of technology is being monitored you can opt to use a
"Safer" computer. Examples of a safer computer that may offer you more privacy
would be: computers located in a public library, Internet Cafe, a trusted
friends house, or a community technology center (CTC). To find a center near
you please visit the national listing at the CTC website.
Other precautions you can take to lesson your
online risk include the following:
 Never
share your e-mail password(s). However, if you believe your abuser
knows your password, before changing it, consider
whether that may cause more danger by arousing suspicion.
Passwords should be difficult to figure out.
Never use birth dates, street addresses, names etc.
Consider having more than
one e-mail account so that you have an alternative if your abuser
forces you to close an account.
Ask friends and family to not share your new e-mail
addresses.
Never
register your personal information such as your real address or
phone number when you sign up for an online service
or web e-mail accounts such as Yahoo or Hotmail.
Computers can also be a useful tool in accessing information about
what you are going through and what you can do to seek help.
However, keep in mind that some domestic violence websites are
not legitimate and may give you misleading information. Your local
domestic violence advocate can help sort out any information that
may be confusing.
Email is not a safe or confidential way to talk to someone about the
danger or abuse in your life, if you wish to obtain further information
or speak to someone about the abuse in your life or someone else's life,
please call our 24 hour hotline whose numbers are listed below.
Please note: traditional “corded” phones are more private than cell
phones or cordless phones.
If you need access an out of state domestic violence program please visit our
State Coalition Page.
If you wish to inquire about
NYSCADV Membership,
making a
Donation
, or for general assistance please
contact our office:
NYSCADV
350 New Scotland Avenue
Albany New York, 12208
Phone: 518-482-5465
Fax: 518-482-3807
Email:
nyscadv@nyscadv.org
or the NYS Domestic Violence Hotline
at (see hotline numbers below).
*If you are in immediate danger, please call 911
.
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