Your social media can be a dangerous place before, during and after a divorce. Just like you wouldn’t want to say something in court that could be used against you, you wouldn’t want to post something on social media that could hurt your divorce case.
It can be difficult to know what is and what is not appropriate to post on social media. After all, social media is an absolute necessity for some. Simply deactivating accounts is not always realistic. Friendships, volunteer work, even your day job may rely on social media to communicate.
Which platforms are safe?
It is crucial to remember that despite the strongest privacy settings, anything you post on the internet could be read by someone else. People can take screenshots, copy and paste text conversations, or other breaches in privacy can happen. The following often feel “safe” but are not:
- Encrypted or password-protected conversations (such as Whatsapp)
- “Disappearing” messages (such as Snapchat)
- Lesser-known chat/video platforms (such as Marco Polo or Discord)
- Chat forums using anonymous or “throwaway” accounts (such as Reddit or tumblr)
When you trust an app or a website with your most sensitive information, including your very personal opinions about your spouse or marriage troubles, you make yourself vulnerable. If this information becomes available in court, it might be used against you when it comes to decisions about custody of children or division of assets.
Many frustrated spouses reach out online rather than in person to avoid judgement, avoid feeling burdensome, or to seek out new perspectives on old arguments. However, the most reliable advice usually comes from a professional counselor, religious leader or a trained third-party neutral mediator. When you go through these channels instead, your personal life can stay personal.
