DEVICE SECURITY TIPS: Could Your Ex-Partner be Cyberstalking You?
By Jennifer Lin and Rachel Hermary
It is common knowledge that some divorces and separation can be high conflict. Unfortunately, we do encounter situations where our client’s ex-partner engages in some form of cyberstalking, device hacking and spyware or surveillance of our client. Such behaviour can include hacking emails and planting listening devices in vehicles, among other things.
The following are some safety tips to consider when it comes to your devices and tech security if you are undergoing a difficult separation and have concerns about being surveilled by your ex-partner:
Change your passwords on all of your accounts (emails, apps, etc.). This is especially important if you are still logged into your accounts on secondary devices such as tablets and laptops, and these devices can be physically accessed by your ex-partner. If the two of you are still living in the same home, it is also advisable to log out of your accounts on those devices. Ensure that you choose a strong password that you have not used for any other account in the past.
Consider updating the security questions that assist with access to your accounts if a “Forgot Password” option is used, there is a chance that your ex-partner may know the answers to those security questions.
Check the list of downloaded apps on your phone to see if there are any newly downloaded apps that you do not recognize, or potential tracking apps have been downloaded without your knowledge. You may also wish to consider speaking with a security/tech expert to ensure your phone has not been compromised in some way.
Make sure that your location data is not being shared with your ex-partner, or being stored on applications such as IMessage or Snapchat. Some social media applications can share your location information without your knowledge, so checking the settings withing your Social accounts is important. The photos that you take on your phone can also store location information, there are settings within your phones to ensure that location information is not shared with another party if a picture is sent to them.
Change your social media settings to make them private instead of public, avoid adding any new friends unless you are sure of who they are.
Check your vehicle (door holders, under seats, glove compartment, center console, etc.) for unfamiliar devices. There are also security companies that can assist with ensuring there are no listening devices in your vicinity.
If you and your ex-partner previously had home security installed and you are still living in the home, be aware that your ex-partner may be able to track your movements if they still have remote access to the cameras and sensors. This would also apply to any smart speakers such as a Google Home. Consider changing who has access to the account on your home security or Google Home etc.
If you and your ex-partner still share the same shared phone plan, you may wish to consider changing carriers or obtain your own phone plan on an account separate from your ex-partner. There may be a chance that they could request call logs and other records associated with your device.
If you and your ex-partner are no longer residing together, but you remain in the previously shared family home, changing the account holder and WIFI router password will ensure that your ex-partner is not able to connect to the home internet while near the residence.
Separations are already stressful events on their own; it is even more difficult when dealing with a controlling ex-partner. Please speak with a family lawyer who can help you determine the best solutions for your situation.
Contact one of our Family Lawyers today by Booking a Consultation.