For most people, divorce is a multi-step, multi-phase process. It requires a lot of research and small steps before you’re able to finally make that big announcement.
All your efforts at stealth, however, may be for nothing if you don’t take steps to protect your digital privacy and cover your digital footprint before you tell your spouse that you want out. Here are some steps you probably want to take.
1. Learn how to use “incognito mode”
All web browsers – including the ones on your phone – have an option that allows you to browse the web without leaving a readily observable trail. This is usually called something like “incognito” mode or “dark” mode. While it won’t erase your digital footprint entirely, it can stop your spouse from seeing that you’re researching legal issues related to divorce, child custody, property division and more.
2. Turn off your tracking mode and “check-ins”
Are you headed to an attorney’s office for a consultation? Are you going to a different bank to set up a separate account? Your phone could end up broadcasting your intentions if you have any kind of tracking app that lets your spouse see where you are or if you have given your phone permission to “check in” on social media. Turn those settings off.
3. Turn off notifications on your phone
If you’re turning to your friends and family members for support during this time, make sure that your phone’s notifications are turned off so that their texts or notes to you in Messenger aren’t visible from your home screen. It would be far too easy for your spouse to see what’s being said to you and realize what’s going on.
4. Get a separate email account
Finally, make sure that you have a secure email that you can use for important divorce-related or financial correspondence. Ideally, you should set this up on a device that your spouse cannot access. Make sure that you pick an email that you won’t confuse with the one your spouse knows, and use a password they’re not likely to guess.
It can be difficult to think about all of the things that you need to do to protect yourself and your privacy during these early days. Legal guidance can often make the process easier.
At The Law Firm of Poppe & Associates, PLLC, our focus is relentless advocacy for our clients. If you or someone you know is considering divorce, reach out to schedule a consultation at 646-665-3903 or by contacting us online.
Let Me Be Your Brave
Mia Poppe, Esq.
Managing Partner