Cyberstalking and how to protect yourself

#1 · February 10, 2025, 4:47 pm

Quote from Fergus McCarthy on February 10, 2025, 4:47 pm
Cyberstalking is a serious issue that affects many people, especially those navigating co-parenting with an ex-partner. Joanna Smykowski from Custody X Change shares key signs of cyberstalking and practical steps to safeguard your wellbeing and your children’s privacy.

4 warning signs of cyberstalking

Cyberstalking involves excessive and intrusive online behaviour by an ex-partner. Here are some key warning signs:

Monitoring social media platforms: If your ex frequently interacts with your posts, brings up old content, or references private details from past conversations, they may be cyberstalking you.

Unsolicited communications: Sending frequent messages, emails, or even harmless-looking videos can be a tactic to bypass boundaries.

Manipulating personal information: Unauthorised login attempts, password reset notifications, or alerts about unusual activity could signal an attempt to invade your digital privacy.

Using fake accounts: Some ex-partners use fake profiles or even manipulate their children’s social media accounts to maintain digital surveillance.

Joanna Smykowski advises: “It’s natural to seek closure after a breakup, but crossing digital boundaries is harmful. Respecting each other’s privacy is the key to moving forward.”

4 ways to mitigate cyberstalking

Beyond setting clear boundaries, these strategies help reduce the risk of cyberstalking:

Limit access to shared devices

Cyberstalkers may exploit shared devices to track location, read messages, or access files. Protect your privacy by:

Removing shared accounts from devices used during the relationship.

Using a separate email account for custody-related communication.

Avoiding shared calendars unless necessary for co-parenting.

Secure personal information and accounts

Taking control of your digital security reduces the risk of an ex-partner accessing your personal life. Steps to consider:

Change passwords for all accounts and enable two-factor authentication.

Separate shared subscriptions, such as Netflix or Spotify, to prevent unwanted digital interactions.

Monitor login activity and update privacy settings regularly.

Protect children from cyberstalking impact

Some ex-partners use digital platforms to harass or manipulate the other parent. To safeguard children:

Prioritise in-person communication over messaging apps where possible.

Enable parental controls on children’s devices and social media accounts.

Teach children about online safety and encourage open conversations about digital interactions.

Take control of your digital environment

Regaining digital independence is crucial after cyberstalking. Actions to take:

Block and report any harassment on social media or email.

Use co-parenting tools like Custody X Change to manage communication without direct contact.

Work with tech companies to strengthen your online security and remove unwanted access.

Cyberstalking is a serious issue, but taking proactive steps can help you reclaim control of your digital space. Setting firm boundaries, enhancing security, and using custody-focused tools enable you to co-parent safely while maintaining your privacy.

Cyberstalking is a serious issue that affects many people, especially those navigating co-parenting with an ex-partner. Joanna Smykowski from Custody X Change shares key signs of cyberstalking and practical steps to safeguard your wellbeing and your children’s privacy.

4 warning signs of cyberstalking

Cyberstalking involves excessive and intrusive online behaviour by an ex-partner. Here are some key warning signs:

Monitoring social media platforms: If your ex frequently interacts with your posts, brings up old content, or references private details from past conversations, they may be cyberstalking you.
Unsolicited communications: Sending frequent messages, emails, or even harmless-looking videos can be a tactic to bypass boundaries.
Manipulating personal information: Unauthorised login attempts, password reset notifications, or alerts about unusual activity could signal an attempt to invade your digital privacy.
Using fake accounts: Some ex-partners use fake profiles or even manipulate their children’s social media accounts to maintain digital surveillance.

Joanna Smykowski advises: “It’s natural to seek closure after a breakup, but crossing digital boundaries is harmful. Respecting each other’s privacy is the key to moving forward.”

4 ways to mitigate cyberstalking

Beyond setting clear boundaries, these strategies help reduce the risk of cyberstalking:

Limit access to shared devices

Cyberstalkers may exploit shared devices to track location, read messages, or access files. Protect your privacy by:

Removing shared accounts from devices used during the relationship.
Using a separate email account for custody-related communication.
Avoiding shared calendars unless necessary for co-parenting.

Secure personal information and accounts

Taking control of your digital security reduces the risk of an ex-partner accessing your personal life. Steps to consider:

Change passwords for all accounts and enable two-factor authentication.
Separate shared subscriptions, such as Netflix or Spotify, to prevent unwanted digital interactions.
Monitor login activity and update privacy settings regularly.

Protect children from cyberstalking impact

Some ex-partners use digital platforms to harass or manipulate the other parent. To safeguard children:

Prioritise in-person communication over messaging apps where possible.
Enable parental controls on children’s devices and social media accounts.
Teach children about online safety and encourage open conversations about digital interactions.

Take control of your digital environment

Regaining digital independence is crucial after cyberstalking. Actions to take:

Block and report any harassment on social media or email.
Use co-parenting tools like Custody X Change to manage communication without direct contact.
Work with tech companies to strengthen your online security and remove unwanted access.

Cyberstalking is a serious issue, but taking proactive steps can help you reclaim control of your digital space. Setting firm boundaries, enhancing security, and using custody-focused tools enable you to co-parent safely while maintaining your privacy.