EMAIL

Your email links to every account you are using, such as social media accounts, work accounts, online banking, shopping accounts, and subscriptions. If somebody gains access to your email account, they could: block your access and lock you out of your own account, read your emails or forward ones that may be sensitive, or use it to gain access to your other accounts. You may have shared your email details while in a relationship or been coerced into sharing your password. It is important to check your email security and make changes to ensure your account is secure.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO SECURE YOUR ACCOUNT AFTER A BREAKUP:

• Secure your account to ensure there are no linked devices by checking your cloud account or use Apple’s Safety Check on an iPhone. Gather evidence of any suspicious connections before removing them by taking screenshots. Remove or delete any unwanted connections.
• Change your password and set up two-factor authentication.
• Change your password to something long and strong, like a phrase or random words put together. Include numbers and special characters.
• Check your email recovery details to ensure the details are your own and that the email address and phone number you have linked to your account are secure.
• Consider creating a new, separate email address for your most sensitive correspondence such as banking, work, and contacting lawyers or agencies for support.
• Block your former partner from contacting you via email. This can be done through your email settings.

For more information, check out our Tips for a Secure Email Account info sheet.

Caution: Please note that if someone else has access to your account, they may be notified of these changes. Some abusers may escalate their violence. Control and coercion may make some of these steps neither possible nor safe. If you have children or other dependents, you might consider going through some of these steps with their technology and accounts as well. To develop a safety plan, visit www.sheltersafe.ca to find a safe, confidential program in your community.