If an abuser has access to your devices, they may be able to see your recent search history, messages, and social media activity. To stay safe, you should regularly clear your "Digital Footprint."

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1. Use Incognito or Private Mode (Recommended)

The safest way to browse is to use a Private or Incognito window. This prevents the browser from saving your history, cookies, or search data from the moment you open it.

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• Google Chrome: Click the three dots (⋮) and select "New Incognito Window."

• Safari (iPhone/Mac): Tap the Tabs icon, select "Private," and tap the "+".

• Microsoft Edge: Click the three dots (...) and select "New InPrivate Window."

• Firefox: Click the menu (☰) and select "New Private Window."

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2. How to Clear History (If already viewed)

If you have already visited websites without using Private Mode, follow these steps to delete the evidence:

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Google Chrome (Desktop & Mobile)

• Desktop: Click three dots (⋮) > History > Clear browsing data. Set time range to "All time." Ensure "Browsing history" is ticked and click Clear data.

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• Mobile: Tap three dots > History > Clear Browsing Data.

Safari (iPhone & iPad)

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• Open your phone Settings > Scroll down to Safari > Tap Clear History and Website Data. * Note: This will close all open tabs and clear history on all devices signed into your iCloud.

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Safari (Mac/Apple Computer)

• Open Safari > Click History in the top menu bar > Select Clear History. Choose "all history" and click Clear History.

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Microsoft Edge (Windows/PC)

• Click three dots (...) > History > Clear browsing data. Select "All time" and click Clear now.

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Mozilla Firefox

• Click the menu (☰) > History > Clear Recent History. Set the time range to "Everything" and click OK.

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3. Important 2026 Safety Warnings

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• Shared Accounts: If you are signed into a shared Google (Gmail) or Apple (iCloud) account, your search history may show up on the abuser’s phone even if you delete it on yours. Always sign out or use a public computer for sensitive searches.

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• Autofill & Passwords: Modern browsers often save passwords and "autofill" forms. Check your browser settings to ensure your new address or safety plan hasn't been saved automatically

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• The "Library Rule": The safest way to find information is still to use a computer that the abuser cannot access—such as at a public library, a trusted friend's house, or your workplace.

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Note: Even if you delete your history, advanced monitoring software (spyware) can sometimes still track your activity. If you believe your device is compromised, try to use a different one entirely.