Like most people, updating and checking your social media profiles is likely part of your daily routine. You may use these sites for entertainment, to connect with friends and family members and to learn about different topics.
According to the Pew Research Center, social media use is prevalent and approximately 7 in 10 Americans use social media in some form. Although using social media may seem harmless, it can have consequences during the divorce process if not carefully managed. The following strategies can help you protect your interests when using social media during the divorce process.
Update your privacy settings
Update your privacy settings as soon as possible, so that others cannot post pictures or information on your profiles without prior consent. You may also want to privatize your accounts so not everyone can view them.
Refrain from oversharing
You may feel tempted to vent about the divorce process and the frustrations you have with your spouse on your social media profiles. Instead, try talking to a therapist or a close friend or family member about your feelings.
Change your passwords
When you and your spouse decide to get divorced, change the passwords on all your social media profiles as soon as you can. You may think that your spouse will not maliciously try to access your profiles, but changing your passwords can safeguard your privacy and prevent issues later on.
If managing your social media usage during your divorce becomes too overwhelming, consider taking a break from these sites. You may want to return to them after you finalize your divorce or when you feel like life has settled into a normal routine once again.