Keeping Safe Online
Safety Information: If you are worried someone may see what you are looking at, you can use the ‘Exit Site’ button at the top of the screen at any time.
It will immediately take you to Google.co.uk.
**The Exit Site button does not clear your browsing history.**
People experiencing domestic abuse often face digital surveillance, whether through shared devices, pressured access to accounts, or covert monitoring. You are not alone, and none of this is your fault. Technology can feel unsafe, but there are ways to reduce risk.
Only use the information below if it feels safe to do so, and stop immediately if anything feels risky.
Tech Abuse Support from Refuge
Refuge has launched a dedicated Tech Safety website, created with survivors, to help anyone experiencing technology‑based abuse.
The site offers:
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a step‑by‑step guidance on securing devices
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support with understanding tech‑enabled abuse
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advice on staying safer online.
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a multilingual chatbot that provides real‑time, automated support.
You can visit their national resource at RefugeTechSafety.org for more detailed information and specialist guidance.
📱 Using Devices More Safely
If possible, consider using:
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A friend’s phone
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A work computer
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A library or community centre computer
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A device your partner cannot access
These options reduce the chance of someone seeing what you’ve viewed.
If you must use your own device:
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Use private browsing/incognito mode only if this is normal for you.
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Avoid saving passwords on shared devices.
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Log out of accounts if that is something you usually do.
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Be aware that some devices sync browsing history across multiple phones, tablets, or laptops.
🧭 If Clearing History Is Safe for You
Some people routinely clear their history, so it doesn’t look unusual. If this applies to you, you can find step‑by‑step instructions for different devices and browsers further down this page.
**If clearing history is not something you normally do, it may be safer not to start.**
📍 Things to Be Aware Of
Abusive partners may use:
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Location sharing through apps like Find My, Google Maps, WhatsApp, or Life360
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Shared cloud accounts (Apple ID, Google account) that sync messages and photos
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Shared phone contracts that show call or text logs
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Smart home devices (Alexa, Google Home, Ring cameras) that record activity
If you think your device is being monitored, making sudden changes may increase risk. Your safety comes first.
💬 Contacting Support Safely
If you need to reach out for help, consider:
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Using a trusted person’s device
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Using webchat services from a safe device
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Using email only if your account is private and not monitored
If you are in immediate danger, dial 999 to contact emergency services from any safe phone or location.
The Exit Site button does not clear your browsing history.
🛡️ 1. Staying Safe When Browsing About Abuse
People experiencing domestic abuse are often monitored or controlled through their devices. This can include checking browsing history, reading messages, or tracking location. None of this is your fault, and you deserve safe access to information.
Only use the guidance below if it feels safe. If anything feels risky, stop immediately.
🧹 Clearing Your Browsing History (Only If Safe)
Below you can include your organisation’s specific instructions for:
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Chrome (mobile & desktop)
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Safari (iPhone/iPad)
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Edge
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Firefox
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Android browser
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Clearing search history on Google
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Turning off or checking location sharing
🧭 3. If Clearing History Is Safe for You
Some people routinely clear their history, so it doesn’t look unusual. If this applies to you, you can find step‑by‑step instructions for different devices and browsers further down this page.
If clearing history is not something you normally do, it may be safer not to start.
🧠 7. You Are Not Alone
Surveillance is a form of abuse. You deserve privacy, safety, and support. Help is available, and you can access it in the way that feels safest for you.
Important safety note
Only follow these steps if:
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Clearing your history is something you already do, or
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You are confident it will not raise suspicion
If you are unsure, it may be safer not to clear your history and instead use:
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A friend’s device
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A work or library computer
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Your phone in a way that is already normal for you
Remember: some accounts (like Google or Apple) can sync history across devices.
Only use these steps if it feels safe and normal for you to do so. If you are worried that someone is monitoring your device, it may be safer to use a different phone or computer—such as a friend’s, a work device, or a library computer—to look for help and information.