Going through a divorce is tough, and managing your social media carefully is necessary. Lawyers are increasingly using social media posts as evidence in court, which can greatly impact the outcome of divorce cases. We’ve compiled a detailed checklist to help you secure your social media and maintain your privacy during this challenging time.
The Growing Role of Social Media in Divorce Cases
A recent survey by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers shows that 81% of divorce lawyers have seen an increase in social media being used in court. Posts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be examined and possibly used against you. This evidence can affect decisions on money, child custody, and more.
What’s at Stake?
What you post can offer a lot of information and might contradict what you’re saying in court.
For example:
- Money Issues: Showing off new purchases or vacations might suggest you have more money than you’ve claimed.
- Relationships: Certain posts or messages can suggest romantic relationships that could complicate the divorce.
- Parenting: Pictures or videos that show partying or irresponsible behavior could affect your child custody rights.
Protecting Your Online Presence
Our checklist provides easy steps to manage your social media:
- Change Your Passwords: Make sure your ex can’t access your accounts by updating your passwords.
- Adjust Privacy Settings: Keep your posts and personal information private.
- Think Before You Post: Avoid sharing anything that could hurt your case.
- Take a Break from Social Media: Sometimes, the safest choice is to stay offline during your divorce.
Expand Your Digital Protection Beyond Social Media
Securing your social media accounts is important, but you should take other steps to protect your privacy during a divorce. Here’s what you need to do and why:
Log Out of Shared Devices
Make sure you log out of any devices you no longer have, like shared computers, tablets, or smartphones. This prevents your ex from accessing your accounts. Check your Google, Apple, and Microsoft account settings to see which devices are connected and remove any you don’t use.
Separate Your Apple Accounts
If you and your spouse share an Apple ID, it’s time to get your own. Sharing an Apple ID means sharing data like messages and photos. Create a new Apple ID and use it on your devices. Transfer your data to your new account to keep it private.
Get a New Email Account or Change Your Password
Consider setting up a new email account just for yourself after the divorce. This helps keep your communications private. If you keep your old email, change the password to something strong and unique. Use two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.
Turn Off Location Sharing
Location sharing can let your ex track your movements, which is a privacy issue. Check apps like Find My Friends, Google Maps, and social media, and turn off location sharing.
Update Online Banking and Financial Accounts
Change your passwords for online banking and financial accounts, like your bank, investment accounts, and credit cards. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication to protect your money.
Review and Update Privacy Settings
Look at the privacy settings for all your online accounts, not just social media. This includes email, cloud storage, and any other platforms you use. Make sure your settings limit who can see your personal information.
Secure Your Personal Devices
Make sure your devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, are secure. Use strong passwords or PINs, and enable security features like fingerprint or facial recognition. If possible, encrypt your devices.
Back-Up Important Data
Save copies of important data and documents in a secure place, like an external hard drive or a secure cloud service. This way, you won’t lose access to important information during the divorce process.
Watch for Unauthorized Activity
Keep an eye on your accounts for any unusual activity, like unfamiliar login attempts or unexpected password changes. Most online services will alert you to suspicious activity, so make sure these alerts are turned on.
Manage Streaming Services, Ride-Sharing, and Shopping Accounts
- Streaming Services: Update or change your passwords for streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Check who has access to these accounts and remove any unauthorized users.
- Ride-Sharing Apps: Review your account settings for ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft and ensure your payment information and ride history are secure. Change your password and remove any shared access.
- Shopping Accounts: Update your shopping accounts like Amazon, eBay, or any other online stores you frequently use. Change passwords and review your payment methods to ensure they are secure and up to date.
Why Download Our 9 Essential Steps to Secure Your Social Media During Separation or Divorce Checklist?
Our checklist, created by experienced family law attorneys, offers practical strategies to manage the digital aspects of your divorce. It helps protect your privacy and your position in legal proceedings.
Final Thoughts on Protecting Your Online Presence During Separation or Divorce
We’re here to support you with the tools and advice you need during your divorce. Secure your digital life and your future by downloading our 9 Essential Steps to Secure Your Social Media During Separation or Divorce Checklist today.
Krista Stallard
Krista Stallard is an experienced family law attorney specializing in divorce and custody cases, passionate about alternative dispute resolution, and committed to providing excellent legal representation to her clients.
Don’t wait—download our checklist now and take charge of your social media. Share this with anyone who might be facing a divorce. Managing your social media carefully is key to a smoother new beginning.
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