C A U T I O N !
YOUR ABUSER CAN TRACK YOUR ONLINE ACTIONS!

If you are currently being stalked or abused, we recommend that you use a computer that your abuser does not have access to - at a public library, a trusted friend's home, an Internet cafe or public hotspot.

The following information MAY help you hide some of your tracks – but not ALL!! The SAFEST thing to do if you are currently being abused or stalked is to use a computer your abuser does not have access to.

HOW AN ABUSER CAN DISCOVER YOUR INTERNET ACTIVITIES

E-MAIL: If an abuser has access to your email account, he or she may be able to read your incoming and outgoing mail. Be sure to check your "Sent Mail" folder and delete any messages you do not want your abuser to see. If you believe your account is secure, make sure you choose a password he or she will not be able to guess.

If an abuser sends you threatening or harassing email messages, they may be printed and saved as evidence of this abuse. Additionally, the messages may constitute a state or federal offense. For more information on this issue, contact the District Attorney in your county or your local United States Attorney's Office.

HISTORY/CACHE FILES: If an abuser knows how to read your computer's history or cache file (automatically saved web pages and graphics), he or she may be able to see information you have viewed recently on the internet. You can't erase all of your tracks on a computer.  There is software that will be able to retrieve your online activity even if you delete your History and Cache Files.

NOTE: This information may not completely hide your tracks. Many browser types have features that display recently visited sites. The safest way to find information on the Internet, would be at a computer that your abuser cannot access. Try a local domestic violence/sexual assault agency, a local library, a community center, a friend's house, or at work.

For more information and assistance, please go to The National Center for Victims of Crime page on Cyberstalking: http://www.ncvc.org/src/help/cyberstalking.html.

If you are concerned for your safety, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-779-SAFE (7233) or (TTY) 1-800-787-3224.

Are you at a safe location? If so, enter our web site.