Like many people, you use social media to stay connected with friends and family members. You may also use different social media sites to access news, entertain yourself and even play games.
Most people use social media today and according to the Pew Research Center, approximately 72% of Americans use social media in some form. If you are in the middle of the divorce process, you should use social media carefully until you finalize a settlement.
It is important to remember that what you post on social media may one day be used in Court, and read by a Judge. You may also have to produce your entire history of your various social media accounts, which often includes messages between people not even related to your case. Taking this issues into consideration, is a very important part as you consider divorce or custody litigation.
Change your passwords
As soon as soon as you consider either separation or possible changes to custody arrangements, change all the passwords on your social media accounts. You may think that the potential opposing party may not try and access your profiles during this period of time (custody or divorce litigation), but it is beneficial to alter your passwords just to be sure. Also, you should be cognizant to leave your accounts open on a family use computer.
Avoid talking about your custody or separation/divorce online
During child custody, property division and other divorce proceedings, you may feel tempted to vent your frustrations online and garner support. However, you should refrain from talking negatively about your spouse online and revealing details of the divorce process. Instead, talk to a friend, family member or therapist about what you are going through.
Update your privacy settings
When you decide to your separate from your spouse, or if you are considering changes to custody arrangements, go through and check the security settings on your social media accounts. Make sure your friends cannot tag you in photos without your permission, for example.
It can be difficult to try and manage your online presence while going through the separation/divorce process. Depending on your situation, it may be beneficial to stay off of social media for a while until you finalize your divorce.