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Working on phone and laptop

Internet Safety Tips

Computers create records of everything you do on the computer and the Internet. 

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If you are in danger, try to use a safe computer where someone abusive does not have direct access, including remote (hacking) access. For example, using a computer in a public library, at a community technology center, at a trusted friend's house, or at an Internet cafe may be safer. 

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If you think your activities are being monitored, you are probably right. Abusive people are often controlling and want to know your every move. You don't need to be a computer programmer or have special skills to monitor someone's computer activities. Anyone can easily access and use many ways to monitor activities. 

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Computers can provide much information about what you can look at on the internet, the emails you send, and other activities. It is impossible to delete or clear all computer "footprints completely." 

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If you think you may be monitored on your home computer, you might consider not using it or only using it to surf for things that are more "safe." For example, if you are planning to flee to California, don't look at classified ads for jobs and apartments or bus tickets for California on a home computer or another computer your abuser has physical or remote access to. Use a safer computer to research an escape plan. 

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Remember, email is not a safe or confidential way to talk to someone about the danger or abuse in your life. Instead, try to use a "corded" phone to call 911 or a domestic violence hotline. Corded phones are more private than cell phones. 

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The Arkansas Crisis Center Hotline: 988

The National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

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Your phone's location is trackable. To turn off location services on your phone, go to settings and turn off "location services." This may look different depending on your phone. If you are unsure how to disable location services on your phone, contact your phone provider, who can walk you through the process step-by-step. 

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