Digital Security Tips: Protecting Yourself from Stalkers & Hackers
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 30
In today’s world, digital security is just as important as physical security, especially for women dealing with stalking, harassment, or online threats. Stalkers often use technology to track, monitor, or intimidate their victims, and hackers can exploit weaknesses to steal information or gain access to private accounts.
Whether you're leaving an abusive relationship or simply want to lock down your online presence, these essential digital security tips will help you stay safe.
1. Secure Your Devices with Strong Passwords & 2FA
Use Unique, Strong Passwords:
Avoid easy-to-guess passwords like birthdays, pet names, or favorite bands.
Use a formula of letters, numbers, and symbols (example: 2025jennyPASSWORD).
Consider using a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password to generate and store passwords securely.
Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):
What is 2FA? It’s an extra layer of security that requires a second step (like a code sent to your phone) when logging into an account.
Activate 2FA on email, social media, banking, and cloud storage accounts to prevent unauthorized access.
2. Lock Down Your Social Media Privacy
Limit What You Share Publicly:
Set all accounts (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.) to private so only approved followers can see your posts.
Avoid sharing locations, work/school info, or travel plans.
Turn Off Location Sharing. Stalkers can use geotags to track your movements.
Check Who Follows You:
Regularly audit your friend/follower list and remove anyone suspicious.
Be cautious of fake profiles—stalkers may use a new account to spy on you.
3. Stop Hackers from Spying on You
Protect Your Webcam & Microphone:
Cover your laptop camera with a webcam cover or tape when you're not using it.
Disable microphone access for apps that don’t need it.
Beware of Free Wi-Fi:
Avoid public Wi-Fi for banking or private browsing.
For added protection you can use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) like NordVPN or ProtonVPN to encrypt your connection.
Turn Off Bluetooth & Location Services When Not Needed:
Stalkers can exploit Bluetooth connections to hack devices.
Avoid using “Find My Friends” or location-sharing apps unless necessary.
4. Prevent Digital Tracking & Spyware
Check for Tracking Apps (Spyware):
If someone had access to your phone, they might have installed stalkerware (spy apps).
Signs of spyware: Battery drains fast, overheating, slow performance, or strange pop-ups.
How to Check for Spyware:
Go to Settings > Apps and look for unknown or suspicious apps.
Use anti-spyware apps like Certo, Malwarebytes, or Lookout to scan for tracking software.
Factory Reset as a Last Resort:
If you suspect spyware but can’t remove it, a full factory reset of your phone may be necessary.
I just recommend that people get a new phone after they break up with a toxic or scary person.
5. Protect Your Online Accounts from Stalkers & Exes
Secure Your Email & Reset Old Passwords:
If an abuser knows or has had access to your email, create a new one and use it only for important accounts.
Update security questions to something they can't guess (avoid "mother's maiden name" or "first pet").
Check Your Google & Apple Account Security:
Google: Go to myaccount.google.com/security to review sign-ins and devices.
Apple ID: Check for unknown devices at appleid.apple.com.
Remove Shared Accounts & Family Plans:
If an abuser had access to shared cloud storage, remove your devices and create a new account.
Avoid shared phone plans—many providers allow account holders to track device locations.
6. Stay Safe from Digital Harassment & Online Threats
Block & Report Harassment:
If someone is harassing you online, the standard advice is to block them immediately on all platforms. (But if you have an ex or a wannabe romantic partner harassing you, if there is a way to unfriend, but not block them, I recommend doing that. That way, you can see when you're in the most danger and preserve evidence.)
Report threats to Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter’s safety teams.
Document Everything:
Take screenshots of threatening messages or online stalking (including usernames & timestamps).
Save emails, call logs, and texts.
Use a Separate Email for Legal or Safety Matters:
If you’re dealing with court cases, restraining orders, or financial independence, create a new email that your abuser doesn’t know.
7. Get Help If You’re Being Stalked or Hacked
🚨 If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
Resources for Digital & Personal Safety:
🔹 National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233)
🔹 NNEDV Safety Net Project – Digital security for survivors
🔹 Cyber Civil Rights Initiative – Help for online harassment
Trust your instincts. If something feels off—whether it's strange messages, weird login notifications, or signs of tracking—take action immediately.
Final Thoughts
Your digital safety is just as important as your physical safety. Stalkers and abusers often use technology to maintain control, but you can take back your power by securing your devices, accounts, and online presence!