Browsing the Web Safely: Protecting Your Privacy
If you are searching for resources or support for intimate partner violence, it’s important to take steps to protect your privacy while browsing online. Many abusers monitor internet activity, and evidence of seeking help can sometimes escalate dangerous situations. Below are ways you can browse more safely on different devices.
Some websites, including ours, may have a “Quick Exit” button. Clicking this will immediately take you to a neutral webpage. However, it will NOT erase your browsing history.
Using private browsing modes can prevent your browser from storing your history.
On a Computer:
- Google Chrome: Press Ctrl + Shift + N (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + N (Mac)
- Mozilla Firefox: Press Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows) or Cmd + Shift + P (Mac)
- Microsoft Edge: Press Ctrl + Shift + N
- Safari (Mac): Click File > New Private Window
On a Mobile Device:
- Chrome (Android/iPhone): Tap the three dots menu ⋮ (Android) or ••• (iPhone), then select New Incognito Tab
- Safari (iPhone): Tap the tabs button, select Private, then tap + to open a new private tab
If you do not want to erase your entire history, you can delete specific pages.
On a Computer:
- Chrome/Firefox/Edge: Open History, find the site, right-click, and select Delete/Remove
- Safari (Mac): Open History, right-click the site, and choose Delete
On a Mobile Device:
- Chrome: Tap History, swipe left on the entry, and tap Delete
- Safari: Open History, swipe left on an entry, and tap Delete
- Use a Safe Device: If possible, use a device your abuser cannot access (like a friend’s phone, a library computer, or a workplace device).
- Use a Search Engine That Doesn’t Track: DuckDuckGo does not save search history.
- Disable Auto-Fill and Saved Passwords: Check your browser settings to ensure your login information is not stored.
- Be Cautious with Email & Social Media: Log out after each use, and avoid using shared devices for personal accounts.
- Use a VPN: If you suspect your internet activity is being monitored, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help hide your browsing activity.
If you believe you are in danger, call 911 or the 24/7 crisis line at the top of this page.
For confidential support:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Love is Respect (for teens & young adults): 1-866-331-9474 or text "LOVEIS" to 22522
Your safety is the most important thing. If you are in danger, exit this page immediately and seek help from a safe location.
If you are searching for resources or support for intimate partner violence, it’s important to take steps to protect your privacy while browsing online.
