Divorce Is Personal. It Should Stay That Way.
Given the highly personal nature of divorce, protecting your privacy in divorce is both essential and challenging. No one wants their spouse to use or abuse personal information in a way that could be financially or emotionally damaging. Accordingly, taking thoughtful, affirmative steps to protect your privacy is essential to avoid some of the uglier fallout that can accompany the end of a marriage. Here are seven tips for protecting your privacy during a divorce:
Set Ground Rules With Your Spouse, If Possible
One of the most effective ways to protect your privacy during a divorce is to reach an understanding with your ex-spouse about the handling of sensitive information. What you both share with others about the divorce, whether in personal interactions or on social media, can set the tone for the divorce. Establishing boundaries and expectations can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts. 
Secure Your Online Life
Much of daily life is conducted over the Internet. Your bank and credit card accounts, bills and financial information, emails, and social media presence are just a few of the online aspects of your life that are vulnerable to less-than-honorable intentions. A disgruntled or vengeful spouse can lock you out of your accounts, assume your identity, and engage in harmful transactions. To keep your digital footprint secure, start by changing the passwords to all your online accounts, including email, social media, and financial platforms. Create strong, unique passwords for each account that your spouse is unlikely to figure out, and use a password manager to keep them safe. Whenever offered, activate two-factor authorization to add an extra layer of security to your online accounts. In terms of privacy in divorce, two-factor authorization ensures that if your spouse or someone else gains access to your password, they will need a secondary authentication method to log in. Using two-factor authorization means you will be alerted to unauthorized attempts to log into your account. In addition to securing your online accounts, you should vigilantly monitor your online presence. Information that is readily available online can be detrimental to your divorce. If you Google yourself and find any sensitive or confidential information, try to have it removed.
Protect Your Personal Documents
The Internet is likely one of many places to find your personal or sensitive information. You may still have hard copies of essential documents such as birth certificates, car titles, tax returns, and financial records. Take an inventory of all documents and store them in a secure location. If you have digital copies of documents and files, encrypt them so that even if someone else gains access to one of your devices, they won’t be able to open or read the contents.
Keep An Eye On Your Money
Close or separate joint bank accounts and credit cards to prevent your ex-spouse from accessing your financial information. Closing or separating accounts ensures that no one will be making unauthorized transactions. Regularly review financial statements and credit reports to detect any suspicious activity.
Read More: Why You Should Prioritize Asset Protection in Divorce in Colorado
Limit Your Social Media Activity
Everything you or your spouse post on social media is available for the world to see and to judge in your divorce case. Whether it is personal information or derogatory comments, nothing good can come from posting about your divorce. Limit your activity and monitor that of your spouse to ensure that you air your differences in a court of law, not in the court of public opinion. Related: 5 Things to Consider for a Faster Divorce in Colorado
Update Beneficiaries and Legal Documents
Review and update beneficiaries on your insurance policies, retirement accounts, and wills to ensure they reflect your current wishes. If you execute a power of attorney that gives your spouse authority to make healthcare or financial decisions on your behalf, replace them with another agent.
Share Any Concerns About Protecting Your Privacy With Your Divorce Lawyer
If you have specific concerns about maintaining your privacy in divorce or activity by your spouse that violates your privacy, discuss them with your divorce attorney. Not only can a Colorado Springs divorce lawyer guide you to help further safeguard your information, but they may also be able to seek intervention from the judge presiding over your divorce case, such as a restraining order, if your spouse has crossed a line.
Perkins Law: Experienced Colorado Springs Divorce Representation
If you have privacy concerns regarding your divorce, contacting an experienced divorce or asset protection lawyer in Colorado Springs is imperative. The knowledgeable Colorado Springs divorce attorneys at Perkins Law are ready to help guide you and your loved one through the divorce process with respect, patience, and understanding. We can develop an approach and strategy best suited to your circumstances and goals. We can help turn the page to a bright new chapter of your life.
