Online Safety Tips 

 

How to Use Our Services Safely and Privately

We understand that your privacy and safety are paramount. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your identity while using our services:

 

Create a New Email Account (or Secure your existing one with Two-Factor Authentication - See below for details)

1. Go to a free email service like Gmail.
2. Follow the prompts to create a new account.
3. Use this new email address only for our services.
4. Remember to sign out of your account after each use, especially if you're using a shared device.

 

Use a Prepaid Credit Card

1. Purchase a prepaid credit card from a local store. You can usually find these in the gift card section.
2. Use cash to load the card with enough funds to cover your purchase.
3. Use this card when checking out on our site.

 

Protect your accounts with Two-Factor Authentication (aka 2FA)

Ok, I know this may seem like a lot, particularly if you find technology confusing. But believe me when I say that this is an ESSENTIAL step in regaining control of your online life.  You can reduce the likelihood of successful hacking attempts by 95%, just by taking this one precaution.   

  • The reality is that victims of abuse rarely realize their privacy has been violated. The goal of Two-Factor Authentication is to add an extra layer of security when signing into your accounts.
  • This helps to ensure that when someone tries to login to your account without your knowledge - they will be blocked if all they have is your user name and password. Without access to the authentication app on your device, they can't get access to see your data!!
  • Best of all, you can get a FREE application which adds this security layer to your Instagram or Gmail apps.
  • We don't want you to get locked out of your accounts.  So be sure to backup your recovery codes (from Instagram and Google apps) and save them somewhere safe once you've completed the setup processes.

I recommend that you download and install the Microsoft Authenticator app. This app is free, has convenient (such as biometric) features - and it doesn't even require a Microsoft account to use!

    1. Google Android: Go to Google Play to download and install the Authenticator app.

    2. Apple iOS: Go to the App Store to download and install the Authenticator app.

For the setup instructions, I've assumed that you're completing the directions below from a mobile phone device.  This will require some copying and pasting on your part.  Take a few deep breaths and grab a cup of tea.  You've got this!  Just take it slowly and follow the directions.   

 

Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Gmail with Microsoft Authenticator

Here's how to set this up for Gmail using Microsoft Authenticator:

Click here to view detailed instructions

 

Set Up Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for Instagram with Microsoft Authenticator

Here's how to set this up for Instagram using Microsoft Authenticator:

Click here to view detailed instructions

  

Additional Safety Tips

1. Clear your browser history after each use.
2. Use private browsing or incognito mode.
3. Be mindful of shared devices and consider using a personal device whenever possible.
4. Change your passwords regularly and don't use the same password for multiple accounts.
5. If you need to reach out for help, consider using national hotlines that provide 24/7, free, and confidential support and information. You can find a list of these hotlines here.

 

Quickly Leaving Our Site

If you need to leave our site quickly, here are some tips:

 

Computer and Laptop Users:
1. Close your browser window by pressing the “x” on the top right-hand corner. This will take you to your desktop screen or to the program open behind this open window.
2. Remember, someone can easily press the “back” button to see that you were on our site.

 

Smartphone or Tablet Users:
1. Use your phone’s lock button or press or swipe the home button on your device.
2. Remember, if someone opens the search or browser app on your phone, they will be able to see what site you were on.

 

Remember, these actions will not delete your history. If someone checks your device, they will be able to see that you have visited this website.

We are committed to your safety and privacy. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Interested in more information about

"Online Safety for Survivors"?

Click here