Free, confidential support
Browse with more privacy.Start with a safer device.
If someone may be monitoring your phone, computer, or accounts, consider using a device they cannot access.
A trusted person’s device or a public computer may offer a safer way to look for support. No browser setting can guarantee privacy on a monitored device.
- Your choices matter
- All genders welcome
- Available 24/7
Before changing settings, consider your safety
Use a safer device
If possible, use a device the other person has not accessed. Be careful about signing into shared or synchronized accounts, which may reveal activity on another device.
Know what Quick Exit does
The Quick Exit button at the top of this website takes you away from the page. It does not erase your browsing history, downloads, or other traces of your visit.
Make changes thoughtfully
Deleting history, changing passwords, or altering settings can be noticed. If that could increase danger, consider talking with an advocate from a safer device first.
Private browsing helps—but has limits
Private or incognito windows can reduce the browsing history saved by that browser after the private session ends. They do not hide activity from monitoring software, everyone on a network, or an account you sign into. Downloads and bookmarks may remain.
On a computer
- Open your browser’s menu.
- Choose New Incognito Window (Chrome), New InPrivate Window (Edge), or New Private Window (Firefox or Safari).
- Close all private windows when you finish.
On a phone or tablet
- In Chrome, use the menu to open a new incognito tab.
- In Safari, use the tab controls to choose Private browsing.
- Close private tabs when you finish. Menu names can vary by device and browser version.
A VPN or a search engine that collects less information cannot make an already monitored device safe.
History, accounts, and shared devices
Reviewing or deleting browsing history
Only do this if it feels safe. Open your browser’s History menu, select specific entries, and use its delete or remove option. Browser menus and synchronized history differ by device.
Removing an entry does not erase every trace of a visit. Downloads, account activity, backups, or monitoring tools may still contain information. A change in history may also be noticed.
Shared accounts and saved information
A shared Google, Apple, Microsoft, or browser account may synchronize activity between devices. Saved passwords, autofill, email, and social media can also expose information.
Consider using a safer device to review your options. Sign out when finished on a shared device, and think about whether changing settings could alert someone.
If you think a device is being monitored
Avoid assuming that private browsing, a new password, or a VPN will stop monitoring. Before removing software or making changes, consider getting help with a technology safety plan from an advocate.
Keep learning, at your own pace
Browser privacy guidance
Safety Net Project: Internet Browser Privacy Tips
Detailed information from the National Network to End Domestic Violence’s technology safety project.
Safer browsing tools
Safety Net Project: Tools for Safer Browsing
Learn about browser profiles, shared accounts, and the limits of privacy tools.
Support for your situation
A Latimer House advocate can help you consider safety concerns and connect with resources. Calls and texts can also leave records; consider a safer phone if needed.
Your safety comes first.
When it is safe to reach out, our crisis line is available 24 hours a day. You can ask questions and talk through your options.