Are you going through a divorce or recently divorced? Protecting yourself from stalking, cyberstalking, and unauthorized access to your personal information is a critical step that many people overlook during the divorce process. In both Illinois and Missouri, there are legal protections available, but your first line of defense is securing your digital accounts and devices.
Why Digital Security Matters During Divorce
During a marriage, couples often share passwords, devices, cloud storage accounts, and location-tracking features. When the relationship deteriorates, this shared access can become a tool for surveillance, harassment, or financial exploitation. A spouse who still has access to your email, bank accounts, or phone can monitor your communications, track your location, or even manipulate financial records.
In high-conflict divorces, digital surveillance by a spouse is more common than many people realize. Taking immediate steps to secure your digital life protects both your safety and your legal interests.
Step-by-Step Digital Security Checklist for Divorce
1. Change All Passwords Immediately
Update passwords for every account your spouse may have had access to, including email (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo), social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), online banking, credit cards, shopping accounts (Amazon, etc.), cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox), and streaming services. Use strong, unique passwords for each account and consider using a password manager. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever available.
2. Secure Your Devices
Change the passcode or biometric settings on your phone, tablet, and computer. If your spouse previously had access to your Apple ID or Google account, change those credentials and remove their devices from your account. Check for any monitoring software or spyware that may have been installed on your devices. If you suspect spyware, have a professional inspect your phone or computer.
3. Review and Disable Location Sharing
Check whether your location is being shared through apps like Find My iPhone, Google Maps, Life360, or family sharing features. Turn off location sharing with your spouse. Also check your vehicle for GPS tracking devices, particularly if your spouse has had access to your car.
4. Separate Shared Accounts
If you share a family phone plan, cloud storage, or streaming accounts, work with your attorney to establish a timeline for separating these accounts. Be aware that some shared accounts may contain information relevant to the divorce proceedings, so consult with your lawyer before deleting anything.
5. Lock Down Social Media
Adjust your privacy settings on all social media platforms to restrict who can see your posts, photos, and personal information. During a divorce, anything you post on social media can potentially be used as evidence. Courts in Illinois and Missouri have allowed social media posts as evidence in divorce and custody proceedings. Best practice: assume that everything you post online will be seen by your spouse and their attorney.
6. Monitor Financial Accounts
Regularly check your bank accounts, credit cards, and credit reports for unauthorized activity. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) if you are concerned about your spouse opening accounts in your name.
7. Secure Your Communications
Use encrypted messaging apps for sensitive communications, particularly when discussing divorce strategy with your attorney. Be cautious about what you say in text messages and emails, as these can be subpoenaed and used in court.
Legal Protections Against Cyberstalking in Illinois and Missouri
If your spouse is engaging in stalking or cyberstalking behavior, both states have legal remedies:
- Illinois: The Illinois Stalking No Contact Order Act (740 ILCS 21) allows victims of stalking or cyberstalking to obtain a protective order. Cyberstalking is a Class 4 felony under 720 ILCS 5/12-7.5.
- Missouri: Missouri’s stalking statute (RSMo 455.010 et seq.) includes cyberstalking as a form of harassment. Victims can seek an order of protection through the court.
- Orders of protection: In both states, you can seek an order of protection as part of your divorce case or as a separate proceeding if your spouse’s behavior constitutes harassment or stalking.
What to Do If You Suspect Digital Surveillance
If you believe your spouse is monitoring your digital activity:
- Do not confront them directly, as this could escalate the situation.
- Document any evidence of surveillance or unauthorized access.
- Contact your attorney immediately to discuss legal options.
- Consider having your devices professionally inspected for spyware.
- If you feel physically unsafe, contact law enforcement.
How Hunsinger Law Group Can Help
At Hunsinger Law Group, we help clients in Illinois and Missouri protect themselves during the divorce process. Whether you need an order of protection, guidance on securing your digital accounts, or representation in a high-conflict divorce, we are here to help.
See all of our divorce and family law posts.
Keep your family’s future as positive as possible. Have the licensed social worker attorney assist you during this difficult time. Call (833) 256-6644 or use our form to schedule a consultation.
HUNSINGER LAW GROUP
Empowering families to create a better tomorrow
See all of our divorce and family law posts
Keep your family's future as positive as possible. Have the licensed social worker attorney assist you during this difficult time. Call (833) 256-6644 or use our form to
schedule a consultation.
HUNSINGER LAW GROUPEmpowering families to create a better tomorrow