Online Security Tips During Your Divorce

Divorce is a challenging time. It’s filled with emotional and logistical hurdles. One aspect that can easily be overlooked is online security. 

In Canada – as in many parts of the world – people increasingly rely on digital communication, and on online services. This means it’s become crucial to protect your personal information at all times, but especially during your divorce. 

Here are some essential tips to ensure your online security remains intact during this period.

1. Change Your Passwords and Security Questions

• One of the first steps to take when you begin the divorce process is to change your passwords. This includes the ones you shared with your spouse, and even those you did not. It’s important to start untangling your lives, beginning with online accounts.
• This includes your personal email, social media profiles, online banking, online shopping, utilities for your home, and any other services where sensitive information is stored. 
• Ensure that your new passwords are strong, incorporating a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid any passwords that you have used in the past, and especially those that you and your spouse used together, or that your spouse might easily guess at.
• Additionally, update your security questions and answers to something only you would know.

2. Secure Your Devices

• Now is also a good time to ensure that you and your spouse cannot access each other’s technology. 
• Ensure that your devices—computers, tablets, and smartphones—are secured with strong new passwords, or with biometric locks (like fingerprint or facial recognition) that prevent unauthorized access. 
• Regularly update your operating systems and software to protect against vulnerabilities. Consider using encryption for sensitive files and documents.

3. Be Cautious with Shared Accounts and Devices

• If you have shared accounts or devices with your spouse, it’s crucial to secure them now. 
• Log out of all shared accounts, set up separate accounts, and change your passwords immediately. This is especially important for shared devices. 
• If possible, use your own non-shared device for communication and storing sensitive information.

4. Monitor Your Online Presence

• Keep an eye on your social media accounts and online presence. Be mindful of what you post, since information can be used against you during divorce proceedings.
• Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your posts and personal information. You might even consider negotiating with your spouse, that you each will “unfriend” and block each other from social media. This will ensure that neither of you has access to information that might unjustly impugn the other.
• It’s also wise to regularly search for your name online to see what information is publicly accessible. 

5. Use Secure Communication Channels

• During a divorce, sensitive information will be exchanged between you, your lawyer, and possibly other parties. Use secure communication methods, such as encrypted email services or messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption. 
• Avoid discussing sensitive matters over unencrypted or unsecured channels.

 

Related: Text Messages and Social Media in Divorce Proceedings in Canada

6. Protect Your Financial Information

• Financial security is paramount during a divorce. Ensure that your personal online banking and financial accounts are secure from hackers – and even from your spouse if your divorce is acrimonious.
• Monitor your accounts regularly for any unauthorized transactions. If necessary, alert your bank to your situation and ask for additional security measures.
• If you do shared accounts with your spouse, this is a good time to negotiate (through your lawyers) on how they should be dealt with and accessed while the divorce process unfolds. This is one of the first steps towards dividing your finances. 

7. Beware of Phishing Scams

• It’s always good to be on the lookout for phishing scams, where attackers attempt to trick you into providing personal information. But during a divorce, when there are a lot of issues to be sorted out, you might be less vigilant.
• Be wary of unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal or financial information. As always, verify the sender’s identity before clicking on any links or downloading attachments.

8. Keep Your Lawyer Informed

• Inform your lawyer about any concerns you have regarding your online security. They can offer guidance and ensure that your personal information is handled securely throughout the legal process.