No absolute guarantees

Digital safety and supporting someone

Technology can be used to monitor, threaten, isolate, or impersonate someone. Safety changes depend on the device, account, and relationship. A change that improves security in one situation can alert an abusive partner in another.

What if I’m being tracked?

Start with a safer device

Accounts and location sharing

Check whether an Apple ID, Google account, email, family phone plan, or password manager is shared.
Review Find My, Google Maps location sharing, social-media location settings, shared calendars, cloud photos, and signed-in devices.
Do not change passwords or remove a shared account while using a device the other person may see if that action could trigger an alert. Ask an advocate first.

Trackers, vehicles, and smart-home devices

Look for unfamiliar AirTag or Bluetooth-tracker alerts and ask a trusted advocate or law enforcement agency how to document the situation safely.
Review vehicle apps, connected-car accounts, navigation history, smart speakers, cameras, doorbells, locks, and home Wi-Fi access.
Do not confront the person or immediately remove a device if doing so could increase danger. Your physical safety comes first.

Passwords and recovery methods

From a safer device, use unique passwords and multi-factor authentication where it is safe to do so.
Check recovery email addresses, phone numbers, passkeys, active sessions, forwarding rules, and backup codes.
A new email address or password manager can help, but creating one on a monitored device can expose the plan.

Browser history and shared devices

Private browsing does not make internet use invisible. Network, device, account, or monitoring software may still record activity.
Use a safer device when possible. Quick Exit leaves this page but cannot erase every history, synced activity, download, or network record.
Do not put identifying details into this site’s search fields; the directory does not need them.

What if I’m worried about a friend?

Support without taking control

Listen and believe

Say “I’m glad you told me” and “This is not your fault.” Avoid asking why they stay or promising secrecy you cannot keep.

Respect their choices

Offer options and practical help. Do not confront the abusive person, pressure them to leave, or share their location without permission.

Get advice

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can help supporters think through safer ways to help.

Call the hotline