ECONOMIC

Online financial accounts hold all your banking details. If a person gains access to these details, they can obtain credit fraudulently in your name, transfer or withdraw funds, or potentially block you from accessing your account. It is important to check these accounts and ensure they are all secured. You may have had a joint account with a former partner, in which case it is advisable to contact your bank as soon as possible to arrange moving your money to your own account or withdrawing the money if you are worried about your former partner knowing your new bank account details and closing the account. If this account is not closed, they may be able to take out loans and you may have to make repayments on the account. It is advisable to complete a free credit check to see if there are any debts in your name that you are not aware of.

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO SECURE YOUR FINANCIAL ACCOUNTS AFTER A BREAKUP:

• If you are concerned that your former partner has your bank and login details, request a new card and login through your bank.
• Check PayPal and other online banking apps you may be using, change the 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 recovery details

• Check that the recovery details (name, contact info) are your own, and that the email address and phone number you have linked to your account are secure.
• Request a fraud marker is placed on your accounts if you are concerned that your former partner has or is likely to take credit out in your name.
• Check all online shopping accounts, especially any that are linked to your PayPal, credit card, and bank account. Secure these accounts by changing the passwords and setting up two-factor authentication.
• Screenshot all evidence that another person has gained access to your accounts. Speak with your bank to see if they can provide evidence that a third party gained access to your account without consent. You may want to share this evidence with a lawyer or law enforcement later.

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.