Digital Breakup Assistant

Securing your iPhone or iPad

Follow these steps to ensure the information on your iOS device stays private after a breakup.

Step 1 - Change your passcode

It’s not uncommon for partners to know each other's passcodes. Changing this ensures that only you can unlock your device going forward.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.
3. Tap Change Passcode.

Step 2 - Check saved Face IDs

iOS allows you to set up a second appearance in addition to your own. Ensure you are the only person who can unlock your device by checking for a second Face ID.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Face ID & Passcode.
3. If you see the option to Set Up an Alternative Appearance then only one Face ID is setup and no further action is needed.
4. If you don’t see Set Up an Alternative Appearance then a second Face ID is setup.
5. To remove a second Face ID, tap Reset Face ID to remove all stored faces, then setup Face ID again.

Step 3 - Review signed-in devices

If someone is signed in on a device with your Apple ID, any data you store in iCloud could be accessed from that device. Check signed-in devices for any that do not belong to you.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name.
3. Scroll down to see your devices.
4. To remove a device, tap on it then choose Remove from Account.

Step 4 - Change your Apple ID password

Your Apple ID is used to access a wealth of information about you and your device. It’s important to change your password if you think someone else could have access.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap your name.
3. Tap Sign-In & Security.
4. Tap Change Password.

Step 5 - Check if you’re sharing your location

The Find My app allows you to share your location with a contact. Check this to ensure you are not being tracked without your consent.

1. Open the Find My app.
2. Tap the People tab.
3. Anyone who can see your location will be listed.
4. To stop sharing your location with someone, tap their name then scroll down and tap Stop Sharing My Location.

Step 6 - Look for tracking apps

Many apps can track your location and this could be a way for someone to monitor your whereabouts without your consent.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Privacy & Security.
3. Tap Location Services.
4. Review the apps that have access to your location and uninstall any you don’t recognize.

Step 7 - Review Bluetooth devices

Paired Bluetooth devices can sometimes see information from your device, including messages and notifications. Check for any Bluetooth devices that do not belong to you.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Bluetooth.
3. Review your paired devices.
4. If you don’t recognize a device, tap the i for more details. Pay particular attention to any devices with ‘Show Notifications’ or ‘Share System Notifications’ checked.
5. To remove, tap Forget This Device.

Securing your Android phone or tablet

Follow these steps to ensure the information on your Android device stays private after a breakup.

Step 1 - Change your passcode

It’s not uncommon for partners to know each other's passcodes. Changing this ensures that only you can unlock your device going forward.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Security or Security and privacy (this may vary slightly depending on your device).
3. Tap Screen Lock and enter your current passcode.
4. Tap the screen lock option that you'd like to use and follow the instructions.

Step 2 - Review signed-in devices

If someone is signed-in on a device with your Google account, any data from your account could be accessed from that device. Check signed-in devices for any that do not belong to you.

1. Go to your Google Account.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘Your devices’ panel, select Manage all devices.
4. To remove a device, tap on it then choose Sign out.

Step 3 - Change your Google account password

Your Google account is used to access a wealth of information about you and your device. It’s important to change your password if you think someone else could have access.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Google.
3. Tap Manage your Google Account.
4. Tap the Security tab at the top.
5. Scroll down and tap Password. You may need to enter your current password if prompted.
6. Enter your new password, then tap Change Password.

Step 4 - Check Google Chrome signed-in account

If you use Google Chrome as your web browser then check the signed-in account. Anyone using this account could see your browsing history. It's therefore important to check that the signed-in account is your own.

1. Open the Google Chrome app.
2. Tap the 3 dots at the top.
3. Tap Settings.
4. Under ‘You and Google’ you can view the currently signed-in account.

Step 5 - Check if you’re sharing your location

The Google Maps app allows you to share your location with a contact. Check this to ensure you are not being tracked without your consent.

1. Open the Maps app.
2. Tap the account circle in the top right.
3. Tap Location sharing.
4. Anyone who can see your location will be listed.
5. To stop sharing your location with someone, tap their profile then tap Stop.

Step 6 - Look for tracking apps

Many apps can track your location and this could be a way for someone to monitor your whereabouts without your consent.

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Tap Security and privacy or Privacy (this may vary slightly depending on your device).
3. Tap Permission Manager.
4. Tap Location.
5. Review the apps that have access to your location and uninstall any you don’t recognize.

Step 7 - Ensure Google Play Protect is turned on

All Android devices include a built-in security scanner called Google Play Protect. If someone wants to install spyware on your phone they’ll usually have to disable this first. It’s therefore important to check it's enabled.

1. Open the Play Store app.
2. Tap the account circle in the top right.
3. Tap Play Protect.
4. Ensure it is turned on.

Securing your computer

Follow these steps to ensure the information on your computer or laptop stays private after a breakup.

Step 1 - Change your password

It’s not uncommon for partners to know each other's passwords. Changing this ensures that only you can unlock your device going forward.

For Windows:

1. Open the Settings app.
2. Click Accounts.
3. Click Sign-in options.
4. Click Password.
5. Click Change and follow the instructions.

For Mac:

1. Click the Apple menu in the top left.
2. Click System Settings.
3. In the sidebar, click Login Password.
4. Click Change and follow the instructions.

Step 2 - Run a spyware scan

Spy apps and monitoring tools exist for both Windows and Mac. If installed, this software could allow someone to monitor all activity on your computer.

The most effective way to find and remove software like this is to run a scan with a reputable antivirus application.

Step 3 - Check Google Chrome signed-in account

If you use Google Chrome as your web browser then check the signed-in account. Anyone using this account could see your browsing history. It's therefore important to check that the signed-in account is your own.

1. Open the Google Chrome app.
2. Click the 3 dots at the top.
3. Click Settings.
4. Under ‘You and Google’ you can view the currently signed-in account.

Step 4 - Look for cloud storage apps

If your computer uses a cloud storage app then anyone else who uses the associated account could access your files.

1. Check your computer for cloud storage apps such as Dropbox, Google Drive, OneDrive and Mega.
2. If you find one installed, verify that the signed-in account is your own.
3. If the account is yours, we recommend changing your password.
4. If the account belongs to someone else, then move your files to a secure location and uninstall the app from your computer.

Step 5 - Look for remote access tools

Remote access/remote desktop tools are used to access and control your computer remotely. Check your device for these tools and uninstall any you do not use.

1. Check your computer for remote access tools such as TeamViewer, AnyDesk, Chrome Remote Desktop and LogMeIn.
2. If you find one installed and you do not use it, then uninstall it.
3. If you find one and need to keep it (e.g., for work), we recommend changing your password for the associated account.

Securing your Gmail email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your Gmail account.

Note: If you have an Android device and have already changed the password for your Google account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘How you sign in to Google’ panel, select Password. Enter your current password, if prompted.
4. Enter your new password, then select Change password.

Step 2 - Setup two-step verification

Two-step verification is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-step verification setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘How you sign in to Google’ panel, select 2-Step Verification. Enter your current password, if prompted.
4. Select Get started and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘How you sign in to Google’ panel, check the Recovery phone and Recovery email information.
4. If you wish to make any changes, click on it and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 4 - Review account activity

Your Gmail account records recent sign-ins and logged-in devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘Recent security activity’ panel, review any sign-ins. Click on an entry for more information.
4. If you see a sign-in that wasn’t you, under ‘Do you recognize this activity?’ select No, secure account and follow the instructions on-screen.
5. Next, on the ‘Your devices’ panel, review any logged-in devices. Click on an entry for more information.
6. If you see a device that doesn’t belong to you, select Sign out.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

Gmail allows you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

1. Go to your Gmail account.
2. In the top right, click Settings and then choose See all settings.
3. Click the Forwarding and POP/IMAP tab at the top.
4. In the ‘Forwarding’ section, check if your account is forwarding to another email address.
5. If you’d like to stop forwarding, select Disable forwarding and then click Save Changes at the bottom.

Securing your Outlook/Hotmail email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your Outlook account.

Note: If you have already changed the password for your Microsoft account in a previous step, you can skip this.

1. Go to your Microsoft account and sign in.
2. At the top, select Change password.
3. Enter your current password, enter your new password, and then click Save.

Step 2 - Setup two-step verification

Two-step verification is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-step verification setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Microsoft account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. Under ‘Account’, click Manage how I sign in.
4. Under ‘Additional security’ look for ‘Two-step verification’.
5. Click Turn on and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Microsoft account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. Under ‘Account’, click Manage how I sign in.
4. Under ‘Ways to prove who you are’ check any phone numbers and email addresses.
5. If you wish to remove one, click on it and select Remove.

Step 4 - Review account activity

Your Outlook account records recent sign-ins and account activity. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Go to your Microsoft account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. Under ‘Account’, click View my sign-in activity.
4. Review any sign-ins. Click on an entry for more information.
5. If you see a sign-in that wasn’t you, under ‘Look unfamiliar?’ select Secure your account and follow the instructions on-screen.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

Outlook allows you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

1. Go to your Outlook account.
2. Click the Settings button in the top right.
3. Select Email then choose Forwarding.
4. Check if your account is forwarding to another email address.
5. If you’d like to stop forwarding, uncheck Enable forwarding and then click Save.

Securing your Yahoo email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your Yahoo account.

1. Sign in to the Yahoo account security page.
2. Next to ‘Password’ click Change password.
3. Enter a new password and click Continue.

Step 2 - Setup two-step verification

Two-step verification is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-step verification setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Sign in to the Yahoo account security page.
2. Next to ‘2-Step Verification’ click Turn on.
3. Choose your 2-step verification method and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Sign in to the Yahoo account security page.
2. Under ‘Verification Methods’ check your recovery emails and recovery phone numbers.
3. If you wish to remove one, click the Remove button next to it.

Step 4 - Review account activity

Your Yahoo account records recent sign-ins and connected devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Sign in to the Yahoo account security page.
2. Review your account's recent sign-ins and list of connected devices.
3. If you see a connected device that doesn’t belong to you, click the 3 dots next to it.
4. Click Sign out.
5. Click Sign out of session.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

Yahoo allows you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

Note: Automatic forwarding is only available for paid Yahoo accounts. If you have a free account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Yahoo Mail account.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click More Settings.
4. Click Mailboxes.
5. Click the primary mailbox account.
6. Under ‘Auto-forwarding’ check if your account is forwarding to another address.
7. If you’d like to stop forwarding, click Remove and then click Save.

Securing your iCloud email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your iCloud account.

Note: If you have an iPhone or iPad and have already changed the password for your Apple account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Apple account and sign in.
2. Click Sign-In and Security, then click Password.
3. Enter your current password, enter your new password, and then click Change Password.

Step 2 - Setup two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-factor authentication setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Apple account and sign in.
2. Click Sign-In and Security, then click Account Security.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to add your trusted devices and set up two-factor authentication.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Apple account and sign in.
2. Click Sign-In and Security, then click Email & Phone Numbers.
3. Check your saved email addresses and phone numbers.
4. If you wish to remove one, click the remove button next to it.

Step 4 - Review signed-in devices

Apple records devices that are logged into your account. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any devices that you do not recognize.

Note: If you have an iPhone or iPad and have already reviewed devices signed-in to your Apple account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Apple account and sign in.
2. Click Devices.
3. Review the devices signed-in to your account.
4. To remove a device, tap on it then choose Remove from Account.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

iCloud allows you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

1. Go to your iCloud Mail account.
2. At the top of the ‘Mailboxes’ list, click the Settings icon.
3. Click Settings.
4. Click Mail Forwarding and check if your account is forwarding to another address.
5. If you’d like to stop forwarding, uncheck Forward my email to.

Securing your Proton Mail email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your Proton Mail account.

1. Go to your Proton account and sign in.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click All Settings.
4. Click Account and password.
5. Next to ‘Password’ click Change password.
6. Enter your old password, enter your new password, and then click Save.

Step 2 - Setup two-factor authentication

Two-factor authentication is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-factor authentication setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Go to your Proton account and sign in.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click All Settings.
4. Click Account and password.
5. Under ‘Two-factor authentication’ click your preferred authentication method and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Proton account and sign in.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click All Settings.
4. Click Recovery.
5. Under ‘Account recovery’ check the Recovery email address and Recovery phone number information.
6. If you wish to remove one, delete it and click Save.

Step 4 - Review active sessions

Proton Mail keeps track of all sessions that are currently signed-in to your account. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any devices that you do not recognize.

1. Go to your Proton account and sign in.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click All Settings.
4. Click Security and privacy.
5. Under ‘Session management’ review all active sessions.
6. If you see a device that doesn’t belong to you, click the Revoke button next to it.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

Proton Mail allows you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

1. Go to your Proton account and sign in.
2. Click Settings.
3. Click All Settings.
4. Click Forward and auto-reply.
5. Under ‘Forward emails’ check if your account is forwarding to another email address.
6. If you’d like to stop forwarding to an email address, click the 3 dots next to it and then choose Delete.

Securing your AOL email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your AOL account.

1. Sign in to the AOL account security page.
2. Next to ‘Password’ click Change password.
3. Enter a new password and click Continue.

Step 2 - Setup two-step verification

Two-step verification is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password.

Note: If you already have two-step verification setup with your account, you can skip this step.

1. Sign in to the AOL account security page.
2. Next to ‘2-Step Verification’ click Turn on.
3. Choose your 2-step verification method and follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Sign in to the AOL account security page.
2. Scroll to the bottom of the page and check your recovery emails and recovery phone numbers.
3. If you wish to remove one, click the Remove button next to it.
4. Click Remove email or Remove phone to confirm.

Step 4 - Review account activity

Your AOL account records recent sign-ins and connected devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Sign in to the AOL recent activity page.
2. Review your account's recent sign-ins and list of connected devices.
3. If you see something you don’t recognize, click Sign out or Remove next to it.

Securing your other email account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your email account.

1. Log into your email account.
2. Go to your account settings and find the option to change your password.
3. Enter your new password and save the changes.

Step 2 - Setup two-step verification

Two-step verification is one of the best ways of protecting your account from unauthorized access, even if someone knows your password. It works by sending a unique code to a trusted device whenever you log in. The code and your usual password are then required to gain access.

1. Log into your email account.
2. Go to your account settings and look for the two-step verification option (also sometimes called two-factor authentication).
3. If two-step verification is already set up, you can skip this step.
4. If it’s not set up, turn it on and follow the instructions on-screen.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Log into your email account.
2. Go to your account settings and find your account recovery information.
3. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
4. If you find one that belongs to someone else, remove it and save the changes.

Step 4 - Review account activity

Most email accounts record recent sign-ins and logged-in devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Log into your email account.
2. Go to your account settings and look for ‘Recent activity’, ‘Connected devices’ or similar.
3. Review any recent sign-ins and/or any devices connected to your account.
4. If you notice anyone else using your account without your permission, most email providers have the option to either log them out or report unauthorized access.

Step 5 - Check email forwarding

Most email accounts allow you to automatically forward your emails to another address. Check your account to ensure your emails are not being sent anywhere you don’t want them.

1. Log into your email account.
2. Go to your account settings and look for a ‘Forwarding’ section.
3. Check if your account is forwarding to another email address.
4. If you’d like to stop forwarding, remove the email address or disable the feature.

Securing your Facebook account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with friends and family, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password and log out devices

Choosing a new password and ensuring your account isn’t logged in on other devices is the first and most simple step towards securing your Facebook account.

1. Go to the Facebook Accounts Center.
2. Click Password and security.
3. Click Change password.
4. Enter your current password followed by your new, strong password twice.
5. Make sure ‘Log out of other devices’ is checked and click Change password.

Step 2 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to the Facebook Accounts Center.
2. Click Personal details.
3. Click Contact info.
4. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
5. If you find one that belongs to someone else, click on it then choose Delete.

Step 3 - Check privacy settings

If your privacy settings are not correctly configured, then anyone could see your Facebook activity. It’s therefore important to review these settings so you know exactly who can see your profile, posts, and stories.

1. Go to your Facebook Audience settings.
2. Click Profile information and ensure any information you want to keep private is set to ‘Only me’ or ‘Friends’.
3. Click X to go back.
4. Click Posts and stories and ensure only your ‘Friends’ can see your posts and stories.

Step 4 - Remove unwanted friends

If someone is friends with you on Facebook they can usually see anything you post including photos, check-ins and statuses. Therefore, you may want to consider unfriending your ex and anyone else you no longer want to share information with.

1. On Facebook, go to the profile of the person you want to unfriend.
2. Click Friends at the top of their profile.
3. Click Unfriend, then click Confirm.

Securing your Instagram account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with friends and family, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password and log out devices

Choosing a new password and ensuring your account isn’t logged in on other devices is the first and most simple step towards securing your Instagram account.

1. Go to the Instagram Accounts Center.
2. Click Password and security.
3. Click Change password.
4. Enter your current password followed by your new, strong password twice.
5. Make sure ‘Log out of other devices’ is checked and click Change password.

Step 2 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to the Instagram Accounts Center.
2. Click Personal details.
3. Click Contact info.
4. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
5. If you find one that belongs to someone else, click on it then choose Delete.

Step 3 - Block accounts

If your Instagram account is not private then anyone using the platform could see what you post. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your Instagram activity.

1. On Instagram, go to the account you want to block.
2. Click the three dots next to their profile name.
3. Click Block.

Securing your Twitter/X account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with friends and family, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your Twitter/X account.

1. Go to your Twitter/X Account Settings.
2. Click Change your password.
3. Enter your current password followed by your new, strong password twice.
4. Click Save.

Step 2 - Review active sessions

Twitter/X keeps track of all sessions that are currently signed-in to your account. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any devices that you do not recognize.

1. Go to your Twitter/X Account Sessions page.
2. Review all active sessions.
3. If you see a device that doesn’t belong to you, click on it then select Log out the device shown.
4. Alternatively, click Log out of all other sessions to log out all devices except the one you are currently using.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Twitter/X Account information page.
2. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
3. If you find one that belongs to someone else, click on it then click Update and change it back to your own.

Step 4 - Block accounts

If your Twitter/X posts are public (the default setting) then anyone using the platform can see them. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your Twitter/X activity.

1. On Twitter/X, go to the account you want to block.
2. Click the three dots next to their profile name.
3. Click Block.

Securing your TikTok account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with friends and family, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your TikTok account.

1. In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom.
2. Tap the Menu button at the top.
3. Tap Settings and privacy.
4. Tap Account, then tap Password.
5. Enter your new password and tap Next.

Step 2 - Review signed-in devices

TikTok records devices that are logged into your account. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any devices that you do not recognize.

1. In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom.
2. Tap the Menu button at the top.
3. Tap Settings and privacy.
4. Tap Security & permissions.
5. Tap Manage devices and review the devices signed-in to your account.
6. If you don't recognize a device, tap the delete icon to remove it.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom.
2. Tap the Menu button at the top.
3. Tap Settings and privacy.
4. Tap Account, then tap User information.
5. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
6. If you find one that belongs to someone else, click on it then click Change email or Change phone and change it back to your own.

Step 4 - Check your direct message settings

You may want to change your direct message settings so that only friends can message you. This ensures you will not receive unwanted messages from your ex.

1. In the TikTok app, tap Profile at the bottom.
2. Tap the Menu button at the top.
3. Tap Settings and privacy.
4. Tap Privacy.
5. Scroll down and tap Direct messages.
6. Set ‘Allow direct messages from’ to ‘Friends’ or ‘No one’.

Step 5 - Block accounts

If your TikTok account is not private then anyone using the platform could see what you post. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your TikTok activity.

1. In the TikTok app, go to the person's profile.
2. Tap the Share button at the top.
3. Tap Block to confirm.

Securing your LinkedIn account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with colleagues and grow our professional network, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password and log out devices

Choosing a new password and ensuring your account isn’t logged in on other devices is the first and most simple step towards securing your LinkedIn account.

1. Go to your LinkedIn account settings page.
2. Click Sign in & security.
3. Click Change password.
4. Enter your current password followed by your new, strong password twice.
5. Select the checkbox next to Require all devices to sign in with new password.
6. Click Save password.

Step 2 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your LinkedIn account settings page.
2. Click Sign in & security.
3. Click Email addresses and review all email addresses added to your account.
4. If you’d like to remove an email address, click Remove next to it.
5. Click Back.
6. Click Phone numbers and review all phone numbers added to your account.
7. If you’d like to remove a phone number, click Remove next to it.

Step 3 - Block accounts

Anyone within your network of connections on LinkedIn could see your employment details as well as what you post. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your LinkedIn activity.

1. On LinkedIn go to the profile of the person you’d like to block.
2. Click the More button below the profile picture.
3. Click Report / Block.
4. Select Block [name], then click Block.

Securing your YouTube account

Most of us share a wealth of information on social media. While this helps us stay connected with friends and family, in the wrong hands it could allow someone to find out things about you that you would rather keep private.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your YouTube account.

Note: You sign-in to YouTube with your Google account. If you have already changed the password for your Google account in a previous step, you can skip this.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘How you sign in to Google’ panel, select Password. Enter your current password, if prompted.
4. Enter your new password, then select Change password.

Step 2 - Review account activity

Google records all recent sign-ins and logged-in devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘Recent security activity’ panel, review any sign-ins. Click on an entry for more information.
4. If you see a sign-in that wasn’t you, under ‘Do you recognize this activity?’ select No, secure account and follow the instructions on-screen.
5. Next, on the ‘Your devices’ panel, review any logged-in devices. Click on an entry for more information.
6. If you see a device that doesn’t belong to you, select Sign out.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or alternative email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Go to your Google account and sign in.
2. On the left navigation panel, select Security.
3. On the ‘How you sign in to Google’ panel, check the Recovery phone and Recovery email information.
4. If you wish to make any changes, click on it and follow the on-screen instructions.

Securing your other social media account

Your email account is one of the most important things to secure after a breakup. If someone else has access they could not only view your private messages, but also potentially receive two-factor codes or use it to reset passwords to your other online accounts.

Note: The instructions in the following steps may vary depending on which social media platform you are using.

Step 1 - Change your password

Choosing a new password is the first and most simple step towards securing your social media account.

1. Log into your social media account.
2. Go to your account settings and find the option to change your password.
3. Enter your new password and save the changes.

Step 2 - Review account activity

Most social media accounts record recent sign-ins and logged-in devices. We recommend reviewing these and checking for any activity that you do not recognize.

1. Log into your social media account.
2. Go to your account settings and look for ‘Recent activity’, ‘Connected devices’ or similar.
3. Review any recent sign-ins and/or any devices connected to your account.
4. If you notice anyone else using your account without your permission, most social media platforms have the option to either log them out or report unauthorized access.

Step 3 - Check account recovery details

You are usually required to provide a phone number or email address that can be used to recover your account if you lose access. It’s therefore important to check that these details are your own.

1. Log into your social media account.
2. Go to your account settings and find your account recovery information.
3. Check any saved phone numbers and email addresses are your own.
4. If you find one that belongs to someone else, remove it and save the changes.

Step 4 - Block accounts

If your social media account is public then anyone using the platform could potentially see what you post or comment. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your activity.

1. Log into your social media account.
2. Browse to the account you want to block.
3. Click ‘More’, the three dots or similar to view actions for the profile.
4. Choose the option to block or unfriend.

Securing WhatsApp

To ensure your conversations stay private it’s important to check that only you have access to your messaging apps and that your privacy settings are configured correctly.

Step 1 - Secure your profile

By default, anyone who knows your phone number can see several pieces of information about your WhatsApp account, including your profile picture, status, and last seen time. Therefore, you may want to restrict who can see this information.

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. On iPhone tap Settings. On Android tap the 3 dots, then tap Settings.
3. Tap Privacy.
4. For ‘Last seen & online’, ‘Profile photo’, ‘About’ and ‘Status’ choose My contacts except… and then choose which contacts you do not want to see that information.

Step 2 - Check linked devices

WhatsApp allows you to access your account on additional devices such as computers or tablets. Once linked, these devices can both send and receive messages. It’s therefore important to check that your account is only linked to devices you own.

1. Open WhatsApp.
2. Tap Settings (or the three dots) then tap Linked Devices.
3. Review the list of linked devices. If you see any devices you don’t recognize, tap them and select Log Out.

Securing Snapchat

To ensure your conversations stay private it’s important to check that only you have access to your messaging apps and that your privacy settings are configured correctly.

Step 1 - Check linked devices

Snapchat allows you to access your account on additional devices such as computers or tablets. Once linked, these devices can both send and receive messages. It’s therefore important to check that your account is only linked to devices you own.

1. Open Snapchat.
2. Tap your Profile icon then tap the Settings button.
3. Tap Two-Factor Authentication.
4. Tap Forget Devices.
5. Tap the remove button next to any device you’d like to unlink from your account.

Step 2 - Review location sharing settings

Snapchat allows you to share your location with your friends and family. However, after a break you may want to limit who can see your location via Snapchat.

1. Open Snapchat.
2. Tap the map tab, then tap the settings icon.
3. If you do not want anyone to see your location, under ‘Who Can See My Location’ enable Ghost Mode.
4. Alternatively, choose My Friends, Except... and choose the Snapchat contacts that you do not want to share your location with.

Step 3 - Block contacts from your Story

By default, all of your friends can see Snaps that you add to your Story. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see your Snapchat Stories.

1. Open Snapchat.
2. Tap your profile icon, then tap the settings icon.
3. Scroll down to ‘Privacy Controls’ and tap View My Story.
4. Tap Custom and select the contacts you want to block from seeing new Snaps you add to your Story.

Securing Telegram

To ensure your conversations stay private it’s important to check that only you have access to your messaging apps and that your privacy settings are configured correctly.

Step 1 - Check linked devices

Telegram allows you to access your account on additional devices such as computers or tablets. Once linked, these devices can both send and receive messages. It’s therefore important to check that your account is only linked to devices you own.

1. Open Telegram.
2. On iPhone tap Settings. On Android tap the 3 lines, then tap Settings.
3. Tap Devices.
4. Review the list of active sessions. If you see any devices you don’t recognize, tap them and select Terminate Session.

Step 2 - Block accounts

By default, anyone who knows your phone number can see several pieces of information about your Telegram account, including your profile picture, bio, and last seen time. Therefore, you may want to restrict who can see this information and blocking is the quickest way to do this.

1. Open Telegram.
2. On iPhone tap Settings. On Android tap the 3 lines, then tap Settings.
3. Tap Privacy and Security then tap Blocked Users.
4. Tap Block User... and select the contact(s) you wish to block.

Securing Signal

To ensure your conversations stay private it’s important to check that only you have access to your messaging apps.

Step 1 - Check linked devices

Signal allows you to access your account on additional devices such as computers or tablets. Once linked, these devices can both send and receive messages. It’s therefore important to check that your account is only linked to devices you own.

1. Open Signal.
2. On iPhone tap the profile icon, then tap Settings On Android tap the 3 lines, then tap Settings.
3. Tap Linked Devices.
4. Review the list of linked devices. If you see any devices you don’t recognize, tap Edit, tap the red delete icon then tap Unlink.

Securing other messaging apps

To ensure your conversations stay private it’s important to check that only you have access to your messaging apps and that your privacy settings are configured correctly.

Step 1 - Check linked devices

Some messaging apps allow you to access your account on additional devices such as computers or tablets. Once linked, these devices can both send and receive messages. It’s therefore important to check that your account is only linked to devices you own.

1. Open the messaging app and find the settings page.
2. Look for ‘Linked Devices’ or similar.
3. Review the list of any linked devices. If you see any devices you don’t recognize, unlink or delete them.

Step 2 - Secure your profile

Depending on the messaging app, it could be possible for someone to see information about your account that you may want to keep private. This could include your profile picture, status, or last seen time. Therefore, you may wish to review the app’s privacy settings.

1. Open the messaging app and find the settings page.
2. Look for the ‘Privacy Settings’, ‘Security Settings’ or similar.
3. Review each of the settings and make changes for any information you would rather not share.

Step 3 - Block accounts

Usually, if someone knows your number they can still find you on messaging apps and could see some information from your profile. Therefore, you may want to consider blocking your ex and anyone else you no longer want to see this information or contact you.

1. Open the messaging app.
2. Find the contact you want to block and tap ‘Block’.
3. Alternatively, check the settings page for a ‘Block Users’ section and block contacts that way.

Securing your bank accounts

After a breakup, securing your bank accounts and cards is essential to protect your financial information and assets. Here are steps you should consider taking.

Note: Due to the huge number of bank accounts available throughout the world we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for all bank accounts.

Step 1 - Change your password

Changing your passwords is the first and most crucial step in securing your bank accounts after a breakup. Select a strong, unique password that includes a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, and special characters.

Avoid using easily guessable information, such as birthdays or common words. Update the passwords for all your online banking, credit card, and financial apps.

Step 2 - Update your security questions

Security questions are often a weak point in account protection, especially if your ex-partner knows details about your personal life.

To secure your accounts, update your security questions with answers that are only known to you.

Step 3 - Close joint accounts

If you shared joint accounts with your ex-partner, it’s critical to close them or remove their access as soon as possible.

Schedule a visit to your bank to discuss the best approach, which may involve dividing the funds fairly or transferring the balance to a new account in your name only.

Step 4 - Secure physical cards

Gather all your debit, credit, and other bank cards to ensure they’re in your possession. If you’re missing any, report them as lost or stolen to your bank immediately so they can cancel the card and issue a new one.

Also, if you think your ex knows your card details or has it saved to their device, request a new one from your bank.

Step 5 - Review auto-payments

After a breakup, it’s important to review and update all auto-payments linked to your bank accounts and credit cards. Go through your statements to identify recurring payments, such as subscriptions, utilities, and other services.

Ensure that any payments associated with shared services or expenses are either canceled or transferred to your own account. This step helps prevent any accidental payments for services that you no longer use or need.

Step 6 - Check linked accounts

Financial security extends beyond your bank accounts to any other platforms linked to them, such as PayPal, Venmo, or digital wallets. Review these linked accounts to ensure your ex-partner no longer has access.

Change passwords and update security settings on these platforms to match the changes you’ve made with your bank accounts.

Additionally, remove any payment methods that may still be linked to shared services or accounts.

Securing your health & fitness apps

After a breakup, it’s important to consider the privacy and security of your fitness tracking and health apps. These apps often contain sensitive personal information, including your activity levels, location data, and health metrics.

Note: Due to the ever-growing list of health and fitness apps, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most apps.

Step 1 - Change your password

Change the passwords for all your fitness tracking and health apps. Use strong, unique passwords to ensure that only you have access. This is particularly important if your ex-partner knew or had access to your previous passwords.

Step 2 - Unlink shared accounts

If you had linked accounts with your ex-partner for shared challenges, progress tracking, or fitness goals, it’s time to unlink or remove their access. This ensures that your personal health data remains private and isn’t accessible to others.

Step 3 - Update emergency contacts

Many health and fitness apps allow you to set emergency contacts. If your ex-partner was listed as an emergency contact, be sure to update this information with a trusted friend or family member instead.

Step 4 - consider your privacy settings

Review the privacy settings within your health and fitness apps. If you had been sharing your activities, progress, or location with a network of friends or on social media, you might want to limit or stop this sharing. Tightening your privacy settings will help you keep your personal information secure.

Securing your smart home devices

In the modern smart home, IoT (Internet of Things) devices—from smart speakers to security cameras—play a significant role in daily life. After a breakup, it’s crucial to ensure that these devices are secure and that your privacy is protected.

Note: Due to the ever-growing list of IoT devices, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most devices.

Step 1 - Change device passwords

Immediately change the passwords for all your IoT devices, including smart speakers, security systems, thermostats, and any other connected gadgets. Use strong, unique passwords to prevent unauthorized access. This step is vital if your ex-partner previously had access to these devices.

Step 2 - Update access permissions

Review and update the access permissions for each device. If your ex-partner was linked to your smart home system or had access to specific devices, revoke their permissions. This may involve removing them from shared accounts, updating user profiles, or disconnecting their devices

Step 3 - Reset devices to factory settings

If possible, consider resetting your IoT devices to their factory settings. This will remove any existing connections, accounts, and settings associated with your ex-partner. After resetting, you can set them up again under your own account, ensuring full control over the devices.

Securing your car apps

Modern cars are increasingly connected, with apps that allow remote access, control, and monitoring of your vehicle. After a breakup, it’s important to secure these apps to protect your privacy and ensure that only you have access to your vehicle.

Note: Due to the large number of car manufacturers we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most car apps. Please refer to your car’s user manual for specific instructions.

Step 1 - Change app passwords

Start by changing the passwords for any car-related apps you use, such as those for remote start, GPS tracking, or vehicle diagnostics. Use strong, unique passwords to prevent unauthorized access. This is particularly important if your ex-partner had access to your car’s app accounts.

Step 2 - Review and update user permissions

Many car apps allow multiple users to access vehicle features. Review the user permissions within the app and remove your ex-partner from any shared access. This ensures that they can no longer control or monitor your vehicle remotely.

Step 3 - Reset connected devices

If your car’s app is connected to other devices, such as a smartphone or smartwatch, ensure that these connections are secure. Consider resetting or re-pairing the devices to ensure that only your personal devices are connected. This prevents your ex-partner from using a previously linked device to control or track your vehicle.

Step 4 - Update emergency contacts

Many car apps allow you to set emergency contacts or share your location with trusted individuals. If your ex-partner was listed as an emergency contact, update this information with someone you trust. This step helps maintain your safety while ensuring your ex-partner no longer receives updates or alerts about your vehicle.

Step 5 - Update GPS and Location Sharing

If your car app includes GPS tracking or location-sharing features, ensure that these settings are updated to protect your privacy. Turn off any location sharing that might have been set up with your ex-partner. This step is crucial to prevent them from knowing your whereabouts or tracking your movements.

Securing your ride-sharing and taxi apps

Ride-sharing apps like Uber are convenient, but they can also store personal information and ride history that you may want to secure after a breakup.

Note: Due to the ever-growing list of ride-sharing apps available across the world, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most apps.

Step 1 - Change your account password

Start by changing the password for your ride-sharing app account. Choose a strong, unique password that your ex-partner won’t easily guess. This ensures that only you have access to your account and its features, preventing unauthorized use.

Step 2 - Update trusted or emergency contacts

Many ride-sharing apps allow you to set trusted or emergency contacts who can receive updates on your trips. If your ex-partner is listed as one of these, update this information with someone you trust. This ensures that your location and ride details are only shared with those you choose.

Step 3 - Check family settings

If your ride-sharing app is linked to other accounts, for example via a family profile, review and update these connections. Remove any linked accounts that your ex-partner might still have access to, ensuring that your ride-sharing activities are completely private.

Step 4 - Update account information

Ensure all other account details, such as your email address, phone number, and profile picture, are up to date. Keeping this information current helps prevent unauthorized access.

Securing your vacation apps

Vacation apps, such as Airbnb and Kayak, often contain sensitive information about your travel plans, payment details, and past stays. After a breakup, it’s important to secure these accounts to protect your privacy and financial information.

Note: Due to the ever-growing list of vacation apps, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most apps.

Step 1 - Change your account password

Begin by changing the passwords for all your vacation apps. Choose strong, unique passwords that combine letters, numbers, and special characters. This ensures that your ex-partner cannot access your accounts and view your booking history or upcoming trips

Step 2 - Update profile and contact information

Ensure that all profile details, such as your email address, phone number, and personal information, are up to date and not accessible by your ex-partner. Keeping this information current helps prevent unauthorized access and ensures only you receive notifications about your activity.

Step 3 - Review and manage shared accounts

If you have shared accounts on apps like Airbnb, review the settings and remove your ex-partner’s access. This might involve removing them as a co-host on Airbnb, or unlinking shared profiles on travel booking apps. Ensuring that only you have access to your account helps maintain your privacy and control over bookings.

Securing your shopping and takeout apps

Shopping and takeout apps, such as Amazon, Instacart or Uber Eats, store personal details, payment information, and order history. After a breakup, it’s important to secure these apps to protect your privacy and financial information.

Note: Due to the large number of shopping apps available, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most apps.

Step 1 - Change your account passwords

Start by changing the passwords for all your shopping and takeout apps. Choose strong, unique passwords that include a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters. This ensures that only you have access to the account and order history, preventing unauthorized use.

Step 2 - Review and update payment information

Check the payment methods linked to your shopping and takeout apps. If you shared a payment method with your ex-partner, such as a joint credit card or a shared bank account, remove it and add a payment method that you control exclusively.

Step 3 - Update delivery addresses

Review the saved delivery addresses in your apps and remove any that are associated with your ex-partner or places you no longer visit. This prevents orders from being mistakenly or intentionally sent to locations associated with your past relationship. Ensure your current address is the only one listed to avoid any confusion.

Securing your streaming services

Video streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and others often store personal viewing preferences, account details, and payment information. After a breakup, it’s important to secure these accounts to protect your privacy and ensure your streaming experience is fully under your control.

Note: Due to the ever-growing list of streaming services, we are unable to provide specific step-by-step instructions in this section. However, the general advice below is valid for most services.

Step 1 - Change your account passwords

Start by changing the password for your video streaming accounts. Use a strong, unique password that combines letters, numbers, and special characters. This will prevent your ex-partner from accessing your account and using your subscription without your permission.

Step 2 - Review and update payment information

Check the payment methods linked to your streaming services. If you were using a shared payment method, such as a joint credit card or bank account, remove it and replace it with a payment method that only you control. This ensures that you’re the only one responsible for subscription fees and prevents unauthorized changes to your account.

Step 3 - Update account information

Check that all account details, including email address, phone number, and any security questions, are your own. This ensures that only you can recover the account or request a password reset.

Step 4 - Check for linked devices

Review the devices linked to your streaming accounts. If your ex-partner’s devices are still connected, remove them from the account. This will log them out and prevent them from accessing your streaming service from their devices. Most streaming services have an option to manage and remove connected devices in the account settings.