Preparing for Divorce: Passwords, Accounts, and Privacy

In today's world, divorce is more than just dividing assets and establishing custody agreements, it also involves untangling your online presence. Many divorcing couples in Washington State share financial accounts, social media profiles, streaming services, and even cloud storage. Failing to protect your digital footprint during a divorce can lead to privacy concerns, financial complications, and even legal issues.

Here are a few issues to consider:

1.  Update Passwords and Enable Two-Factor Authentication
If you’ve shared passwords with your spouse for banking, email, or social media accounts, it’s time to update them. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords.

Additionally, enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your most sensitive accounts, such as:

• Email accounts (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo)
  
  
• Online banking and investment accounts
  
  
• Cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud)
  
  
• Social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter/X)
  
  
• Shopping and subscription services (Amazon, Netflix, Apple ID)

With 2FA enabled, even if your ex-spouse knows an old password, they won’t be able to access your account without a secondary verification code.

2.  Separate Joint Accounts
Many couples share digital financial accounts, such as Venmo, PayPal, or credit card logins. Work with your attorney to determine which accounts should be closed or transferred.

• Banking & Credit Accounts: If you have joint accounts, avoid making large withdrawals without legal guidance.
  
  
• Streaming & Subscription Services: Change logins or set up new accounts to ensure your ex-spouse does not have access.
  
  
• Cloud Storage & Shared Documents: If your ex has access to cloud-based storage, review what documents are shared and remove personal files as needed.

3.  Audit Your Social Media Presence
Social media activity can be used as evidence in a divorce case. Avoid posting about finances, vacations, or new relationships during the proceedings. Review your social media settings to:

• Restrict past and future posts to "Friends Only"
  
  
• Remove your ex-spouse from shared accounts or business pages
  
  
• Disable location tracking and check-in features
  
  
• Be cautious about mutual friends who may share screenshots

If you’re unsure about the impact of social media on your divorce case, consult a divorce attorney before posting online.

4.  Protect Your Personal Data on Shared Devices
If you and your spouse have shared a computer, tablet, or mobile device, ensure your private information remains secure.

• Sign out of shared browsers and clear saved passwords.
  
  
• Remove personal accounts from shared computers and devices.
  
  
• Back up important documents and messages before making changes.
  
  
• Check location-sharing settings (Google, Apple, or Snapchat) to prevent tracking.

If you're concerned about digital surveillance, consider resetting your phone or consulting a cybersecurity expert.

5.  Secure Important Digital Documents
Divorce involves a large amount of paperwork, including tax records, financial statements, and legal documents. Ensure these records are stored securely:

• Scan and save copies of important documents to a secure cloud storage service or external hard drive.
  
  
• Keep digital records of court filings, emails, and messages with your attorney.
  
  
• Change access settings for any shared business or personal accounts.

If you need assistance gathering or protecting sensitive documents, an attorney can help you navigate this process.

6.  Consult with a Washington Divorce Attorney
Your digital life is just as important as your physical assets during a divorce. We always recommend that you speak to an attorney before you make any changes to your account or profile information. At Magnuson Lowell, P.S., we offer free telephone case evaluations to discuss your concerns and guide you through the process 425-800-0576 - call today!

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