How To Clean Tech Stuff Up Post Divorce

Cleaning up tech after a divorce can be a crucial part of ensuring both personal and financial security. Here’s a guide to help you through the process:

1. Change Passwords on All Accounts

Start by updating passwords for any shared or personal accounts. Focus on:

• Email accounts (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.)
• Social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter)
• Banking & financial services
• Streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, etc.) Use strong, unique passwords for each account, and consider a password manager to store them securely.

2. Secure Your Devices

Make sure your devices—phones, tablets, computers—are secure:

• Change PINs and passwords for device access.
• Check for any shared devices and determine whether any need to be reset or reconfigured.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for added protection.

3. Review Shared Accounts and Devices

If you shared accounts like Amazon, Apple iCloud, or Google Drive, make sure you:

• Remove access for your ex-spouse.
• Create separate accounts for shared services moving forward.
• Backup and transfer personal data from shared devices before removing any accounts.

4. Address Financial Accounts

• Close any joint bank accounts or credit cards that are no longer needed, and ensure your financial tech tools (e.g., budgeting apps) reflect your new circumstances.
• For apps that track or automate payments, like PayPal or Venmo, verify you are the only one with access.

5. Scrub Social Media

• Update or remove any joint photos or statuses that no longer reflect your situation.
• Review privacy settings to ensure that sensitive information isn’t visible to unintended audiences.

6. Delete or Disconnect from Shared Technology

For smart home devices like Alexa, Google Home, or Nest:

• Remove shared access and change ownership if necessary.
• For shared cloud services, transfer files to your own account and disconnect devices linked to your ex-partner.

7. Check for Tracking Software or Spyware

If you suspect that spyware or tracking software may have been installed on your devices:

• Run a full antivirus or malware scan.
• Factory reset devices to remove any hidden apps or software.

8. Consult a Professional

If you’re unsure about the best steps to take, consulting a tech professional or a lawyer specializing in digital privacy post-divorce can be helpful.

By addressing each of these steps, you can regain control of your tech and digital footprint, ensuring that your online presence and privacy are properly safeguarded moving forward.