For most people, technology is an essential part of their daily life. While social media pages, smart phones, and email are convenient and fun, the data trail that is left behind can make a person vulnerable to those who wish to gain information about their most personal affairs. If this information were to get into the wrong hands, it could easily make things uncomfortable or increase conflict; and may even harm one’s legal position in divorce proceedings. For example, photos of you partying or drinking heavily with friends every night could jeopardize your chances of getting the custody arrangement you desire. Likewise, if your spouse uncovers an affair, it could ruin your chances of receiving alimony.
The experienced divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC help those who are going through a divorce protect and secure their electronic data. Here are a few things you can do to ensure that your privacy is protected:
- Set up password protection on your laptop, desktop, and smartphone. If you are not sure how to do this, perform a web search for “how to password protect my [device]” and follow the instructions. On a password-protected computer, the screen will be locked until the correct password is entered. This will prevent unwanted viewers from reading your browsing history or accessing your email or bank statements. If your phone has biometric protection capabilities, you can set up a “Touch ID” password so that only your fingerprint will unlock the device.
- Change your email password and passwords for any online shopping accounts. Consider changing security questions and answers to those that your spouse would not be able to guess.
- Clear your browsing history frequently and use private or “incognito” windows. Be sure to check the box saying “clear saved passwords” as well.
- Contact your cell phone provider and update your contact information. If your account is not in your name, your spouse will have access to phone numbers for all the calls and texts that you make and receive. In some instances, text messages are also traceable. If you want to proceed with an abundance of caution, get a new telephone number and establish the bill in your name alone.
- Get a post office box to ensure that mail and packages reach you without being diverted.
- Set your social media privacy settings to private or friends only. Make sure you know who can see what you post and who is on your friend list. You do not want your spouse scrolling through your friends list looking to see whether you have added anyone. Be cautious when commenting or liking public posts, as these can be seen by the public even if your own settings are private.
- Address the issue of tagging photos by either preventing it via your privacy settings, or by requiring that tagged photos of you are approved before being published. Even if you think your privacy settings are secure, it may be easier to disable your social media profiles until after your divorce is finalized.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Advise Clients on Protecting Their Electronic Data
If you are seeking a divorce in Maryland, contact the Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC by calling 443-589-0150 or fill out our convenient online contact form. With offices in Hunt Valley, Towson, and Pikesville, Maryland we represent clients throughout Baltimore County, Harford County, Carroll County, and Howard County including the towns of Essex, Columbia, and Bel Air.