Different types of abuse can occur in abusive relationships. One type that can be hard to see is technology-facilitated abuse. This is the use of technology, the Internet, and online platforms to bully, harass, stalk, intimidate, or control a partner. One way we support survivors is by helping to create safety plans, including online safety. Learn how to clear your search history and how to clear call and text history. We’ll also share what social media privacy settings are helpful to change.

How to Clear Search History

Many people use our website to learn about abuse, safety plans, and find local resources.  Oftentimes, abusive partners will monitor and track what their partner does online, normally by checking their web history. To prevent this, it’s important to clear your search history, especially if you used our site to chat with an advocate or find local resources. The process is slightly different depending on what browser you use, but here are the basics.

• Go to the Settings page by clicking the three dots on the top right of your web browser.
• Select the Privacy and Security category.
• Choose Clear Browsing Data. You can choose to either delete all search history or only select webpages. You may feel safer deleting all your search history. Or it might be better to only delete the sites you don’t want your abusive partner to see. Choose what feels best for your situation.

Here are more detailed directions to clear your browser history for different browsers.

• Microsoft Edge

• Google Chrome

• Firefox

How to Clear Call and Text History

Some abusive partners go through their partner’s phone to see who they are talking to. If you’re worried about this happening, learn how to clear your call and text history. This is especially important if you call or text The Hotline to get support, but also includes any DV programs you contact. It might also be needed if you call or text a helper and don’t want your abusive partner to know. To clear this history, you can:

• Open your Phone app.

• Tap Call Details.

• Select Trash or Delete.

• You can also swipe left on the call history and select the red trash can option.

Here are more detailed explanations for Apple and Android users.

If you can’t clear your call or text history, use a codeword or alias for those contacts.

How to Change Social Media Privacy Settings

Whether you are in an abusive relationship or have left, social media can be used against you. Sometimes an abusive partner will monitor your social media to see who you talk to or what you’re doing. It can also be used after you leave to harass or stalk you. Changing your privacy settings can help prevent this. Consider changing the following settings.

• How people find and contact you

• Who can see your posts, comment on them, or share them

• If you can be tagged in photos and posts

• Blocking certain profiles.

In addition to changing your privacy settings, be sure to change your password and other login information. This is especially important if you have shared passwords with your abusive partner. Also, be on the lookout for suspicious or fake accounts that contact you. This could be your abusive partner in disguise.

We’re here to help.

Living in an abusive relationship or leaving one is hard. Our advocates are available for support 24/7. We can talk about what you’re experiencing and help figure out what is best for your situation. We can also talk about how to clear your search history or other online safety tips. Many programs help with tech safety and protection; you can also find domestic violence programs near you.