Safety Alert: Browser History

When you search for information or communicate online, your history and activities can leave traces on your computer. Erasing your online and computer history is not always 100% effective. Instead, use a computer that an abuser does not have access to such as at work, the library or a friend or family members.

If this is not an option for you and you are in a safe place, you can also call our 24-hour hotline 1-603-994-SAFE (7233) to speak with a trained advocate.

The following steps will help increase safety.

1. Do not store passwords and change your password(s) often.
TIP: Do not use obvious passwords such as a birthday or pet’s name. Use passwords that include capital letters and symbols. Do not let your computer save your password(s).

2. Delete e-mails and empty your recycle or trash bin.
TIP: Delete emails from your “Send, Outbox” and “Deleted Items” boxes. Empty your “Recycle” or “Trash Bin” on your computer located on the desktop.

3. Erase online history.
TIP: Empty your browser cache and do not create favorites or bookmarks of websites that you have visited for support.

4. Clear your search engine.
TIP: If you have visited a page more than once, your search engine may save your searches. Check your search engines “Settings” and find “History” to clear your “Browsing Data”.