This section includes some steps you can try if your phone is being monitored or you are getting unwanted calls or texts.
Not all these suggestions might be relevant to your situation and before taking any of these safety steps, please consider if it could add to your risk. If you have any concerns, speak to your ASSIST worker.
- Delete any calls or messages that you don't want your (ex) partner to see - you should be able to do this without deleting everything
- Use your voicemail to screen calls from numbers you don't want to answer, or don't recognise
- Some phones allow you to record calls or have other safety features - check your phone manufacturer's website (e.g. Apple, Samsung etc) for more information or take it into a mobile phone store
- Ask any agencies that call you from withheld numbers to send a text or leave a voicemail, so that you know who is calling
- Keep screenshots of any abusive or threatening messages you receive and consider reporting them to the police
- Save any abusive or threatening voicemails/voice notes and consider reporting them to the police
- If you are getting calls or texts to a landline number, you can speak to your phone provider to see if they can offer any help
- Consider blocking any numbers that you don't want to call you, if it feels safe to do this
- If the calls or texts continue, or are being made from withheld numbers, consider changing your phone number. Only give your new number to people you can trust.
The following steps can help to protect the personal information held on your mobile phone and stop it from being abused:
- Update any passwords or codes for your phone and the apps that you use. For iPhone users this includes Apple ID and iCloud
- When updating passwords or codes, avoid using common words, numbers or keyboard patterns (e.g. 'password' or '123456'), and don't include personal information, like your name, dates of birth, family member or pet's details.
- Consider switching off the 'Find my Phone' function, as well as the location services for the apps that you use
- Check if your phone is linked to any other devices and disable these, to avoid anyone accessing your information
- If your child has a mobile phone, you might also want to talk to them about phone safety. Childline has some useful information on mobile phone safety
If you are unsure how to make any of these changes, ask a trusted friend, family member or speak to your worker. Your mobile phone manufacturer e.g. Samsung, Apple etc, will have instructions on their website, or you can ask your mobile phone provider. You can also ask at a mobile phone store where they may be able to do a security check on your phone.
Phone Safety Guides
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