Your computer use can be monitored in a variety of ways, and may be impossible to erase or conceal. If you are in danger, use the Escape button to leave this website. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE, or Dove House 360-385-5291.

Internet Safety

Email is not a safe way to talk to someone about the abuse in your life. Please call Dove House at 360 385-5291, or National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE.
  • There are hundreds of ways to record everything you do on the computer and what you access on the Internet.
  • If you think your activities are being monitored, they probably are. Use a computer at a public library or a computer lab to access resources and information. Any indication of leaving your situation could put you in danger.
  • It is not possible to delete or clear all computer "footprints". Erasing or deleting files could also alert your abuser and possibly increase your danger.
  • Do not let your computer save your passwords.
  • Spyware can be installed easily and is hard to detect. Every key stroke or web page viewed is recorded and seen by your abuser.
Quick Tips:
  • If you receive harassing emails, save them as evidence.
  • Use a web-based email service like Yahoo or Hotmail.
  • Choose passwords that are not easy to guess and change passwords often.
  • Keep your files on a removable disk and put passwords on them to deter access.
  • When you receive an email you are not expecting or when there is an attachment to an email that you were not expecting, first contact the sender via other means (such as a phone call) before opening the email or the attachment.  Opening attachments can put your computer and identity at risk.
Private or Anonymous Browsing:
Most web browsers now offer an option to browse the internet in an anonymous or private window.  This means that no information – cookies,  temporary Internet files, history, and other data – will be collected or stored on your computer about any sites you visit while in that window. Keep in mind, if you download information, order online, etc., your privacy may still be compromised. Check out the browser's privacy policy before use. (Because this is a newer option, you’ll need to make sure your web browser is up-to-date.)

  • Internet Explorer: open a new tab.  In the main body of the page, you should see an option to “Open an InPrivate Browsing window.”  (For more info)
  • Firefox: Click on the orange Firefox menu on the upper left corner, choose “Start Private Browsing.”  (For more info)
  • Chrome: Click the wrench icon on the browser toolbar, then select “New incognito window.” (For more info)