Technology Safety for Your Privacy and Protection

Worried Someone May Be Monitoring Your Device?

If you feel like your phone, computer, or online activity might be tracked, you’re not alone. Technology-facilitated abuse can make it harder to feel safe or reach out for help. New Directions offers support in Knox County so you can talk through your concerns and take steps to protect your privacy without guessing.

A person looks at their phone while sitting across from a professional taking notes in a brightly lit office with plants.
A sprig of purple wisteria flowers rests on a light-colored surface near a blurred book.
Two people sit on a couch together, one using a laptop while gesturing and looking toward the other.

Signs Your Technology May Be Monitored

  • Your partner knows things you didn’t share
  • You notice unfamiliar apps or settings on your phone
  • Your device behaves differently (battery drain, overheating)
  • You feel like your messages or activity are being checked
  • You’re being pressured to share passwords or location


If any of these feel familiar, you can talk with an advocate about safer ways to respond.

Safer Browsing Steps You Can Take Right Now

  • Use a device your partner cannot access if possible
  • Open a private or incognito browsing window
  • Clear your browsing history after visiting sensitive pages
  • Log out of accounts when finished
  • Avoid saving passwords on shared devices


Taking even one of these steps can help reduce digital traces while you look for support.

Understanding Technology-Facilitated Abuse

Technology-facilitated abuse includes using phones, apps, or online tools to monitor, control, or harass someone. This can involve location tracking, account access, hidden apps, or repeated digital contact.


Learning how these tools work can help you recognize patterns and take steps that support your safety. Trusted national resources like NNEDV Safety Net and the National Domestic Violence Hotline provide additional guidance on this topic.

(External resource links to NNEDV Safety Net and National DV Hotline to be configured.)

Steps to Protect Your Phone and Accounts

  • Review app permissions and remove anything unfamiliar
  • Turn off location sharing where possible
  • Update passwords using a secure device
  • Check account recovery options and remove shared access
  • Consider creating a new email account for private communication


If you’re unsure which steps are safest, an advocate can help you decide what to do based on your situation.

If You’re Not Sure What’s Safe, Start With Support

Technology safety can feel complicated, especially when every situation is different. You don’t have to figure it out alone. New Directions provides local support in Knox County to help you understand your options and take steps that protect your privacy and safety.

Quick Exit and Privacy Tips

  • Use a quick exit button if available on this site
  • Bookmark a neutral page to switch quickly if needed
  • Be aware of shared devices and accounts
  • Trust your instincts if something feels off


If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

A person speaks with hand gestures to a professional holding a clipboard in an office setting.
Hand holding a heart icon above it on a white background

Get Local Support You Can Trust

Online resources can help, but having someone local who understands your situation can make a real difference. New Directions connects you with advocates in Knox County who can help you create a safety plan that includes both physical and digital safety.